Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/569858
A one-day Technology Conference on campus was unlike any professional development teachers had ever experienced. They were asked in advance what they needed and could pick their own workshops. Teachers and professionals from Google conducted sessions at the event, which had a keynote speaker from Apple. Students also are a wonderful resource in helping fac- ulty become comfortable with technology. "I loved helping at the conference," says Daniel New- man, member of the Student Tech Squad. "Even In the classroom, students can play a role in helping teachers. It comes really easy to us — and makes us feel good." TECH TRAINING GOES À LA CARTE IN MANTECA "Prezi is like PowerPoint on steroids," explains Ken Johnson to colleagues gathered in the George McPar- l a n d S c h o o l l i b ra r y. I t ' s 4 5 m i n u te s b e f o re s c h o o l starts, but staff have gathered for "tech talk," lured by coffee and pastries and the chance to learn something new. After the "Cup O Joe" carts were rolled out last year, teachers, clas- sified staff and administrators began pouring in for early morning training collaboration sessions. "I love it," says Kathy Cambra, digital support technician for the district. "Where else can you get coffee and knowledge in one fell swoop?" Attendees view the screen connected wirelessly to Johnson's laptop, as he demonstrates snazzy features of Prezi (for creating presentations) and Animoto (for creating video slideshows from photos, video clips and music). Lastly, he demonstrates how to post on YouTube. Students also love learning about these tools, shares Johnson, Manteca Educators Association president. Students benefit from engaging, hands-on lessons when technology is incorporated into curriculum. Student morale soared after the district set the world record for largest Global Classroom K ahoot. More than 2,000 players in 127 classrooms and 30 schools participated in the real-time online quiz. (Kahoot is an educational, game-based platform where participants can pose questions to an unlimited number of "players.") Stu- dents would never have experienced this historic event if teachers weren't comfortable using technology. The shift started two years ago with the Going Digital Project. MEA leadership insisted on being involved from the beginning, says Johnson, to ensure the district didn't impose one-size-fits-all professional development. Marla Rosenthal, a third-grade teacher in San Marcos School District, is also the site's lead technology teacher. • Roll out short professional development sessions with a "coffee cart" stocked with beverages and snacks. • Organize an expo-style tech conference, with breakout sessions, guest speakers, food and prizes. • Hold an Appy Hour for sharing strategies. • Sponsor a districtwide Twitter chat. • Bargain to ensure adequate compensation and time for collaboration and lesson planning. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT HOW TO REBOOT YOUR 26 cta.org Feature