How to Become a Tech-Savvy Educator by Brian Jenkins

Today I have Brian Jenkins guest blogging. Please be sure to check out his unique guest post. Guest posts are always welcome, please contact me.

There are numerous webinars, workshops, seminars, videos and websites designed to transform technologically challenged teachers into tech-savvy educators. It can be confusing to decide where to start. An alternative approach is to combine some of this e-learning with a technology coach!

A technology coach provides plenty of personalized attention that you won't get in formal computer classes or webinars. Due to the numerous networking sites designed for educators you can easily find an online technology coach. Place a request at a forum or have a friend help you send out a tweet. Teachers help others so your technology coach request will probably produce a positive result. You may get numerous offers.

Before the training begins, be prepared by making a list of the technological skills you already have and a prioritized list of the skills you want to acquire. Also, have a list of pertinent questions. Do some advanced homework by visiting some of the technology/education websites. This will make it easier for you and your coach.
Be active in your technology training. Make sure there is an ample amount of hands-on training and not just lectures via instant messaging or Skype. You can learn a lot from personalized mini-lessons. Don't be afraid to keep asking questions until you fully understand the answers. You're dealing with a teacher, so he or she won't be stunned if you don't catch on the first time. Also, ask your tech savvy coach exactly how he or she uses technology to enhance education. You'll probably get some great tips.

If things go wrong in your school classroom it's great to have a mentor who can listen to your troubles and offer advice and more training. You'll have the opportunity to discuss the details of your situation which you wouldn't have by attending a seminar. After you become a tech savvy teacher, you might be able to volunteer to be a technology coach yourself!

Brian Jenkins writes about Careers in Education for Braintrack.com.

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Many thanks to Brian Jenkins.
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