Unit 4 - Communities of Practice
An important part of successful technology integration in the classroom is ensuring that teachers receive the proper training, support, and guidance required to build confidence while trying to implement technology into their classrooms. While collaboration is a critical component of teacher learning, in the past collaboration was something that would be done with teaching partners or divisional colleagues in a face-to-face environment at school. The advent of technology has changed that and provides opportunities for collaboration and learning through many different avenues. While teachers are encouraging their students to be 21st century collaborative learners, it is also important for them to become connected and model the values within that framework. Teachers who become connected will become more relevant and make learning more meaningful for their students (The Connected Educator).
As a result, becoming a member of a community of practice is key in ensuring teachers receive the support they need. "Communities of Practice (CoPs) are groups of practitioners who "share a passion for something they know how to do and who interact regularly to learn how to do it better" (http://ctlt.ubc.ca/programs/communities-of-practice/). This opportunity will allow teachers to share their ideas, receive training, and keep up-to-date on the changes that may be occurring with the technology itself and best practices. The National Council of Teachers of English explain that communities of practice are different from other professional development because they "reach beyond individuals and toward alignment" (Communities of Practice, 1). This resource may have shared resources, problems, and ideas and will work together to enhance their common goals.
As a result, becoming a member of a community of practice is key in ensuring teachers receive the support they need. "Communities of Practice (CoPs) are groups of practitioners who "share a passion for something they know how to do and who interact regularly to learn how to do it better" (http://ctlt.ubc.ca/programs/communities-of-practice/). This opportunity will allow teachers to share their ideas, receive training, and keep up-to-date on the changes that may be occurring with the technology itself and best practices. The National Council of Teachers of English explain that communities of practice are different from other professional development because they "reach beyond individuals and toward alignment" (Communities of Practice, 1). This resource may have shared resources, problems, and ideas and will work together to enhance their common goals.
Promethean PlanetPromethean Planet provides a curriculum forum on a number of topics for teachers to share ideas, lessons, videos, etc. To visit this forum, click below.
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SMART ExchangeSmart Technologies contains many articles, videos, and news to help teachers keep up to date on new ideas, learning strategies, and ways to engage their students. Teachers may also post comments and questions to the site.
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Social MediaSocial media offers a wealth of information and quick access to like-minded individuals. A shout out on twitter will get you many answers and ideas, however, there are specific groups within Facebook and Edmodo where you can share ideas. If you search for Interactive Whiteboards on Facebook, a number of groups are available for you to join. Similarly, on Twitter, follow SMART Technologies or Promethean Planet to keep up with what is new. Click on the icons below to visit the Twitter or Facebook feed.
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This tutorial itself will become a community of practice through the padlet, below. Feel free to share ideas, resources, or post questions. (double click on a blank space inside padlet to start writing)