Web 2.0 Chapter 6: leadership and new tools

“Leadership starts at the top (pg. 128).” In order for teachers to be expected to use technology in their classrooms, their administrators need to have (more) and effective training in integrating the new tools of technology.

In addition to being an educational leader with responsibilities for focusing thoughtful attention on intellectual growth of students and teachers and guiding classroom activities, is the role of promoting technology in the classroom. This is a HUGE job considering that the conditions are more difficult and more necessary than in the past. Not only do leaders need to understand that changes are happening but also how it’s happening and what will be the likely result as changes are made.

Like the text mentions, “district and school leaders must have a vision for success and communicate with others to make that a shared vision (pg. 120).” With most things in life, if no vision is present, then there is no expectation or goal to work toward and nothing will get done. I think communication is the key to everything and the most difficult skill to master because it encompasses many components and you never stop learning how to communicate effectively. Using blogs, among other tools is a great way to keep communication going and they have many good reasons to use them. They are great for public relations, timely and interactive, unlike emails and other forms of communication, and build communication, among others.

The text mentions nine things administrators and directors should consider before, during and after planning for using Web 2.0. Some include having a vision of how these tools could make a difference, agreeing on goals with other administrators, teachers and students, evaluating current infrastructure to see if it will support the new goals, and identifying new technology and instructional integration strategies. Besides having a vision, I think the most important ones include identifying professional development strategies that will help educators implement technology in the classroom, establishing a realistic timetable, developing a realistic budget, and planning for evaluation.

Furthermore, in a school system there needs to be a balance of new and old teachers working together. Wrongly, I have seen many excellent and experienced teachers replaced (regardless of tenure) with younger teachers. While I understand the need to hire younger teachers that have a better handle on new technologies and a fresher look at education, I still think the older, more experienced teachers have a lot to add to a school community as well. While new teachers bring enthusiasm to the classroom about technology and teaching, they do not have the wisdom and experience older teachers have; making it necessary for both types of teachers to work together and learn from one another. Doing this will hopefully create a better learning environment for all parties.

Since, “Schools have a moral obligation to prepare students for their technology –infused, globally interconnected futures (128),” administrators cannot simply avoid leading in this area because they simply don’t feel comfortable with it. Just because we are not comfortable with something it doesn’t mean we don’t have to (or shouldn’t do) it. I say, if it is beneficial to all involved, do it, we will take the challenge and learn together.