When it comes to technology, it’s normal to find people who are a little scared of incorporating it into their daily lives, especially if they are not used to it. Teachers however, are required to use technology in their everyday lives.
For teachers who have been integrating technology in their lives, some things will seem pretty obvious. But for others, there are bound to be many different dilemmas, questions and excuses time and time again, since they do not quite understand it fully.
Now, in order to be inspired to push the boundaries of traditional learning, having some tech tips for the teachers to use can help them in dealing with the different issues that may arise. Here are some tech tips for teachers.
Start by Shifting Your Mindset
Mindset is a pretty big battle to overcome when it comes to new things such as technology fears. Most people like to say “I’m just not good with technology,” but that is a made-up notion in your mind that needs to change, through the power of positive thinking.
A classroom is basically full of obstacles, and technology is just one obstacle that must be overcome. Probably you are not as quick to learn as your peers, but that should never become an excuse to think that you cannot do it, so, change your mindset.
Learn to Take Risks
Magic will happen when you go outside your comfort zone. Don’t ever be afraid to step out and try new things in the classroom. Model the concept of risk-taking in your classes, and let the students know when you fail or when you make mistakes.
This will help you and them, understand that it is okay to do so. Find out new ways of pushing your students out of their comfort zones and give them new perspectives, ideas, and new ways of approaching a problem.
Always Start with the Why
When you are planning a new digital learning experience, always be goal-oriented. Start by understanding the learning outcomes and not technology. This is an idea that is one of the most important tips of all.
Every single thing you do as a teacher should always come down to helping your students learn and do what is best for them.
Shop for New Tools
There are plenty of new digital learning tools and devices that will make the whole process simple and easy for both you and the students. Of course, having too many options can be overwhelming but if you take the time to understand the different products out there, you shall be one step closer to finding the right tools.
So, check out websites such as Amazon that are able to give you the tools you need, and not only that, they will explain to you the uses of the tools so you can be able to know which one you need urgently, and which one you can keep for later.
Read reviews on the site, get ideas from blogs, do research on Google, talk to friends and just make sure that you gather up as much information as you possibly can to get an idea on the product and when it can do for you and your students.
Don’t Be Swept Away by the Technology and Tools
This has happened to many people when it comes to digital tools. If you love new things, and new gadgets, the chances of getting swept away by them is quite high, and you run the risk of being too focused on the gadget and not really learn as much as you should from them.
Give new tools the time to grow and evolve. Often, you shall find new tools start off as free, then they suddenly require a fee. Be quick to learn, but unless you really understand how the tool works, do not implement or integrate it just yet.
Conclusion
Some millennials will have a hard time understanding what this blog is all about because they tend to be super techy, but if you think about your old teachers, and also how technology keeps changing each year, you shall understand where the problem is. When it comes to technology, it’s good to be slow but sure.
