A couple of yrears ago my principal defined three types of teachers when it comes to technology – the technology novices (Probably a nice way of saying “virgins”) – those who really shy away from anything having to do with wireless or screens or keyboards or software.  You know, the ones who always get NCWISE screwed up.  A second level is the technology recruits – maybe folks who aren’t incredibly savvy but who are willing to take on new ideas and devices with some courage.  Finally, there are the technology natives – folks who are not only undeterred by new applications and experiences but who mine those and see possibilities everywhere (think Jonathan!).

I figure our Kenan colleagues are a mixture of recruits and experts – pretty rich resources for our respective schools.  However, there are always going to be some challenges, and here’s what I see.

Personally, what holds me back is simply time to dig in and become proficient.  I don’t have time or the classes that will permit me to learn an application “on the fly” – I need to have some deep experience with a particular application before I try to use it in class.  Sure, there’s always that kid who knows WAY more than I do and can usually figure out a way (that’s a techn-native).  But when I am crafting the learning experiences for my class I really don’t want to be fumbling around.  I write lots of little grants to fund my personal technology needs – I LOVE DonorsChoose!  Lacking systemic financial support that’s what has to be done.  In school there is just always that cadre of teachers who think “I don’t need this” and so don’t join the herd to integrate technology in their instruction.  Seriously, how much technology do you need in Advanced Weightlifting?  (Ah, but we know of some, don’t we??)

Time, money, buy-in.  The recipe for success.