Once of the keys to utilizing technology in the classroom is finding ways to hybridize the platforms being used. As a technology coordinator, I am constantly looking for ways to provide appropriate technologies for teachers that reach the maximum number of platforms with the minimum amount of effort. I call this type of integration a “technology system.” My theory is that the more effort it takes to maintain the technology, the less likely teachers are going to use it. This makes it especially important for me to develop low-maintenance systems that are easy-to-use. In addition, I always pilot these types of systems in my classroom prior to recommending it to another teacher. The system I have been using recently has me hybridizing e-mail, Twitter, Facebook, Posterous, and my Moodle page.
The system is simple. I created a Facebook “Fan Page” for my classes and a Twitter account (@mreyler). In addition, I created a Posterous account using my school e-mail. I took the Posterous account and set it to auto post to the Facebook page and the Twitter account. Facebook is blocked in my school so it provides me with a way to update the Facebook page during the school day with pertinent information. I then took Java scripts and placed them on my Moodle page so that updates would appear when students went to log in. In addition, the Facebook page is linked to the Twitter account so if I update the Facebook page alone, the Twitter account will represent the changes. The diagram to the right provides you with a picture of the system and its integration.
In another post, I will explain the ways in which I am utilizing Facebook, Twitter, and Posterous in my classroom. For now, my goal is to convince you why creating these types of technology systems is so important for schools.
The number one argument I hear for not utilizing technology in the classroom is “I don’t have the time to mess with it.” Given this problem, it would be irrational for technophiles to work with teachers on one program at a time. Do we need to spend time working with teachers on utilizing individualized technologies? Absolutely, but utilizing a system provides us with the possibility of convincing apprehensive teachers that technology can save them time and engage kids after some minor set-up. Theoretically, a teacher can maintain the entire system above simply through his/her work e-mail (as long as they turn commenting off on Posterous and Facebook).
The gap is widening between the teachers using technology and those not using technology. This also means that the gap between kids is widening simultaneously. Technology is engaging to kids and, though it should never be the focal point of learning, can be a powerful tool in “hooking” recalcitrant students. Educational technology enthusiasts must work diligently to spread their knowledge and excitement as efficiently as possible. By creating technology systems, teachers are utilizing multiple technologies and provided with an opportunity to expand beyond one-hit-wonders.
The system above provides a great foundation for the wide expansion that Twitter and Facebook are going to experience in the months and years to come. If Facebook goes IPO, you can bet that teachers will have a plethora of platforms to choose from that will engage kids and contribute to learning. I would even bet that a number of educational companies will join in and provide ways for teachers to work with students through the interface. More integration will be available using this type of system, which will make it easier to “push” new platforms into classrooms.
What systems do you use?
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