Based on Rogers’ diffusion of innovations model, today´s teachers are urged to become early adopters of educational technology for the benefit of their students. However, instead of worrying about where in the adoption curve each instructor fits in; educators should become familiar with the main factors that influence the adoption of an innovation in the first place. In fact, it is precisely the discussion of these factors that help people cross the chasm and become adopters, as shown in the following picture: According to Rogers, the evaluation of an innovation’s competence takes into account its:
History shows that education has always been aided by tools. Moreover, most teachers agree that technology has the potential to motivate and improve students’ skills if used with a sound purpose in mind. However, many instructors are not using technology in their classrooms as much as they could simply because they lack confidence. Most educators have been tricked into thinking that EdTech is all about complex technology and gadgets, strange acronyms or mission impossible tasks. Nevertheless, taking a closer look at the concept, it is evident that the educational part goes first. And the fact is that there is nobody like a teacher to see the real educational value of something! Believe it or not, this is much simpler than most people think.
If you follow these three simple steps, you will be able to innovate your teaching practice and improve your students’ learning experience, one tool at a time. But most importantly, you will develop a solid judgment of EdTech in practical ways. This is essential as most teachers do not have proper training or much saying as regards the school’s policy on the subject. So, the key is to just start where you are and with what you already have. There are many free useful resources to help you out. That is, after all, Next Step Forward´s purpose… And hopefully, we serve you well. :) References Rogers, E. M. (2010). Diffusion of innovations. Simon and Schuster. For a good summary of this book see http://www.enablingchange.com.au/Summary_Diffusion_Theory.pdf (If you have missed Next Step Forward's EdTech Week on social networks you can have a look at the resources here)
Now you have more tools for great teaching. Share your ideas and inspiration with us. :)
0 Comments
|
Author
I am a passionate teacher of English with more than 16 years’ experience working with all kinds of levels and age groups. A few years ago, I became interested in EdTech. Einstein´s quote "We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them" has inspired me to start this blog. Categories
All
|