I am not surprised when veteran teachers are uncomfortable using technology in instruction, but I see that new teachers are struggling as well. I thought this generation grew up as technology users. Why don’t I see more effective integration in their classrooms?
Younger teachers may have personal proficiency skills beyond those of their more experienced colleagues, but it’s a rare credentialing program that includes instruction in how to use technology as an instructional tool. Just fifteen states have any requirements for technology coursework during the teacher certification process and even fewer (nine) actually test candidates’ technology skills. Make sure that new teachers have opportunities to participate in professional development designed to enable them to move from personal proficiency to effective integration. Activities that are content-based and incorporate appropriate uses of technology will go a long way in helping new teachers develop expertise in both curriculum and instructional practice.
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