Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Back to School Fever

It is that time of the year when the teachers sigh, the students go into hiding and the parents are overly ecstatic and "Back to School Fever" has set in. There are mixed emotions on all levels from all parties. Schools are in preparation for making the transition of new and old students a smooth one without incidents. Just as we prepare our desks , chairs, boards etc. We must prepare our minds for the new school year so that we are ready for anything. We must aim to continue transforming the teaching and learning environment through the use of technology.
I am going to give you a short checklist for you to go over to "cool your passion" as we say here in the Islands and make your fever go away. There shall be no more feelings of anxiety or apprehension on the first day of school.




HOT TECH TIPS!

1. Always have a Plan

Everyone needs a plan to keep them organized and on task.
What will the new school year bring? Hopefully, a better year than the next.
Ensuring that you have a plan for how you will use and integrate technology will help you in the classroom. Also, having a plan for procurement of new technologies and software will limit over budget surprises.

2. Expect the Unexpected and Make the best of your situation
Anything goes with Technology...

You may have expected certain resources to be available to you. You may have expected a new principal, you may have even expected to win the lottery but then again life is full of surprises. Things do not always work out as planned, so keep an opened mind and have a backup plan. Be quick to resolve problems with your technology, if not call a TECH!

3. Embrace the Technology Available

If you have the resources at your fingertips, Please use what you have at your disposal.
Don't let your technologies sit the entire school year. Take the initiative and get things started when others around you may not. You be the Tech Starter, Pick it up, turn it on and teach up a storm!

4. Create, Innovate & Motivate!

Students need something fresh and exciting for the new school year.
What are you bringing to the classroom? Is it the same ole, same ole?
You must have a fresh repertoire of ideas that can reach all your students. Learning new tips and tricks in technology will help you be a better teacher. The classroom is your stage, you can create new lessons , be an innovator of new programs and be successful in motivating your students.

5. Celebrate Accomplishments

Celebrate your achievements by rewarding you and your students.
Teaching is not easy but it can be fun and rewarding.
Take time to pat yourself on the back and give incentives to students for a job well done...

It's ok to reward yourself too, go ahead and do it...you are worth it!

Happy First Day of School!

NR.