Motivational Speech of the Day.

I believe we are teachers in a position of technological shift. We need to learn so many technologies, yet be wary of which may become obsolete or unnecessary. It is hard to decide which programs and software are worth investing our time to learn, but we are the “Deciders.” We pick and choose for now which programs will be used in the classroom and many of our decisions are based on our students practices. Which do they use and which do we choose? Which companies, which software will highlight and successfully achieve student growth in education and do it the way we want to teach? Stay ahead of the game and don’t fall behind. Learn, Learn, LEARN the technology. It will pay off, don’t be afraid to use it!

If teachers could embrace the changes in student communication they could harness student interest in the technology and lead the way in how those devices are being used. In previous experiences during school years and in-service meetings I have found that the number one reason for not utilizing technology inside the classroom is because teachers do not understand it and fear it. They do not understand how to use the growing number of technological devices and software, nor are quick to invest time in learning them. There is also a feeling of helplessness, that “they don’t know what they don’t know.” Often teachers remain idle and frustrated with students when confronted with inappropriate computer or cell phone use, where as they should be quick to embrace, learn and guide students on more productive uses for those and other devices in the classroom. Stay ahead of the game and don’t fall behind. Learn, Learn, LEARN the technology. It will pay off, don’t be afraid to use it!