Over the past several months, we have been implementing the TPACK Professional Development framework (as outlined on this site) in several schools. To help introduce this process, I have created a slideshow to outline the goals for the framework. Several schools are using the framework in its entirety, while others have chosen parts to implement this year.
The goal of the framework is to provide teachers with a focus on objectives, a method to evaluate technology tools, and the time to apply to their curriculum.In addition, we have chosen to use this framework as a year-long process in addition to supporting our school improvement goals. This framework sets out to accomplish the following goals:
1. Create shared vocabulary and experiences for teachers
2. Make sharing relevant for all
3. Deliver focused technology professional development
4. Make technology integration easy.
Ultimately, the process involves a shift in teacher thinking. Rather than “toolcentric” thinking, where lessons begin or are heavily influenced by a technology tool, the framework puts an emphasis on the importance of “objective-focused” planning when looking to integrate technology.
We have already seen signs of success as we are moving towards the application piece of this framework. Teachers have begun to use “affordances and constraints” when choosing a tool for their lesson. There have also been times when teachers have concluded that the use of technology would not be needed to meet their objectives.
By practicing this evaluation technique, teachers do not feel forced to use the technology. Rather, they have more ownership of the technology components when integrated into lessons because they understand how it will help students meet the objectives of the lesson. They have also become more conscious of the skills that students need to use the technology, and to not let that overshadow the original learning objectives.
Ultimately, while we have chosen several focus tools to help drive this professional development, the goal is for teachers to apply this process to other tools throughout the year. This process, has already begun to shift the focus off of simply using technology for technology sake, and started meaningful discussions on the role of technology in the classroom that we will carry on throughout the year.
