10 Things Teachers Should Know About Technlogy- PART DEUX!

TEN THINGS TEACHERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TECHNOLOGY 

Below are my original choices now with * to make notes. I have also moved some items off the list (for now).

Library Management Software: Familiarize yourself with library management software for tracking book inventory, managing library resources, and generating reports on library usage. 

*This got moved to a solid number one. Learning your OPAC is so important. 

Internet Safety and Digital Literacy: This important one remains high on the list! 

*This is so important. I'm still on the hunt for a great curriculum in this area. Feel free to share! 

Digital Citizenship Programs: Implement digital citizenship programs to educate students about responsible and ethical technology use. Discuss topics such as online etiquette, privacy, and the impact of digital footprints. By staying informed and incorporating these technology aspects into library activities, teachers can enhance the learning experience for students and promote digital literacy skills.

*This piggybacks Internet Safety and I am still on the hunt for a great program! 

Maker Spaces and STEM Resources: Explore technology resources in the library's maker spaces. These may include 3D printers, coding kits, and other STEM-related tools that can enhance students' creativity and problem-solving skills. 

*I have spent a good part of my spring preparing these for next school year in the middle school library. I see them so often in elementary libraries, but we need them for our bigger kids as well. Maybe even more than the littles! 

E-book Platforms: Explore e-book platforms available in the school library. Learn how to access, borrow, and recommend e-books to students for both in-class and at-home reading. 

*I can't wait to introduce SORA to our 4-8 students next year!! So many more books. Yipee! 

Online Databases: Know the online databases accessible in the school library. These resources can be valuable for research projects, providing students with credible and up-to-date information. 

*My district has not had these up and running for students K-7. We will be getting them rocking and rolling for the Fall '24! 

Digital Storytelling Tools: Integrate digital storytelling tools into library activities. This can include platforms for creating multimedia presentations, digital storytelling apps, or virtual book clubs. 

*I recently had a teacher request storytelling tools of the low tech variety. Both are important for our learners! 

OFF THE LIST (for now)

These original components are going to wait in the wings! I am not currently using them in my practice, but may someday. 

Online Collaboration Platforms: Use online collaboration platforms for communication and project collaboration. This can include tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or other platforms that facilitate collaboration among students and teachers. 

Interactive Whiteboards: Utilize interactive whiteboards for collaborative lessons. These boards can enhance engagement by allowing students to interact with digital content during library sessions. 

*In the review of tools, this one can be deleted. Our district doesn't prioritize interactive whiteboards so I've never really used one. I've found lots to do without one.