Right now is a very confusing time for everyone. We all work at a super speed pace and in an instant, the world came to a halt. However, teaching did not. During this remote learning time, teachers (& non-techy) teachers are being asked to accommodate for students with and without wifi, and stay true to their teaching values. You might be that tech rockstar that is struggling at little bit…but you’ll make it through. What about the non-techy teachers? Here are some ways to ensure they’re supported.
1. Understand they won’t like the same tech tools as you
Yes, your favorite website that you swear by might not be the tech tool that sells them on using technology and that’s ok. Do you remember how many tech tools you had to use to find your fab five? Keep that in mind when you’re pitching your favorite. They just might think Google Forms are the best thing since sliced bread and that is okayyyy.
2. Scaffold for your friends like you would your students
We all know that not everyone learns the same or at the same speed…so why do we assume it’s one size fits all when learning tech? Talk to your teacher friends about their goal, what subject they think they could start with using tech. You might need to explain the littlest things a few times, show them how to do it, and stand next to them while they try on their own. Encourage them and know that this is an incredibly vulnerable thing for them.
3. Don’t stop checking in on them
Just like you’re working out…you’re super into it and you get excited about this new found love for working out. Then you miss one workout and you’re back to your old ways. Using tech is the same as forming a habit. These teachers need to remember to think in that way, especially since they’re so used to thinking paper/pencil. Did you find a good tech lesson…forward it to them and give some tips. Did you see a digital graphic organizer online? Send it to them and share how it could be relevant for their classroom. Ask them how they’re doing and if you can support – but make it meaningful.
4. Show how using tech saves time & is not ‘another thing’
Every school year is the same, new tech & initiatives roll in and past tech and initiatives roll out. This can create the burden of learning new resources in the midst of lesson planning, and that can feel like just another thing. How can you position specific types of tech as core values to teaching so that they have these in their tech tool belt to make them feel
5. Keep it positive
Remember, it’s okay that they like different tech tools than you, and that some might be not as techy as you’re used to using. Encourage and applaud them for stepping outside their comfort zone.
Now what? Who is that one teacher at your school that you can check in on to see if they’re okay. We’re all just trying to survive, but a little kindness can go a long way.
If you like this post, click here to read about Differentiated Faculty Meetings!
