Technology; Not Just Resistance in Ohms

Change never happens without some resistance. As schools become more technologically inclined, teachers have to follow. It has been long noted that when change happens the strongest resistance comes from veteran teachers. Those that believe that their way is the best way and no “whippersnapper” will show them any different. According to the data that I have reviewed on this concept, much of our perception on this matter is unfounded. In fact veteran teachers have been around so long and witnessed so much change that this population of educators should be the perfect candidates to facilitate change.

When schools introduce new technology into their schools such as Smart Boards, document cameras, and CPS systems, all teachers cringe at the idea of integrating them into their lessons. This is not unique to the veteran teachers. Where schools fail in this integration is that they don’t provide the appropriate or sufficient training to allow teachers to feel comfortable in using the technology. Many teachers that resist new and innovative media outlets are that way because they:

-          Are scared because of previous negative experiences

-          Find new technology intimidating

-          Lack comprehensive training on the relevance of the media

-          Insufficient “buy in”

In with the new and out with the old!

These factors are not unique to veteran teachers. Young teachers or teachers fresh out of college also need the proper training to be able to willingly and effectively integrate new technology into their lessons.

Research has shown that in order for integration to be effective proper staff development practices must be used.  In order to promote “buy in” schools and districts have to provide ongoing support for their teachers. Just throwing technology at them and expecting them to become experts on their own will only promote more resistance. Just as students need to have new concepts modeled and have relevance of the knowledge provided, so do teachers.  

How can we promote acquiescence by our teachers? One useful tool that I found is this survey that looks at the comfort and proficiency levels of teachers when it comes to technology. Schools and districts can do themselves a favor and reflect on their practices when it comes to technology integration. Technology by itself cannot raise test scores but when teachers are confident in using the media in their classrooms, good things happen.