Rein: Any means of restraint, check, or guidance.
Reign: The exercise of sovereign power, as by a monarch.
I wasn’t sure which one to use because they both sound adequate to describe my feelings this week…so I used both!
Increasingly I’m feeling more pressure to stop questioning the powers that be (district leaders, principals, etc) regarding our use of technology in the classroom. I can’t help but notice that everytime someone raises an issue with computer use (among other things), we get a sudden flurry of walk-throughs and “learning walk” visits. It feels like a subtle hint or reminder that ‘big brother’ is always watching and to stop making waves.
As I mentioned in my last blog, I’m trying to change how curriculum content gets taught across the board in my school. I’m trying to encourage other teachers to take a risk and use new methods and/or technology to teach topics and maybe we’ll see some different results. I don’t have much support in my efforts. When I ‘buck’ the traditional methods, there is a sudden congruence meeting whose sole topic seems to be to ensure we are using all the required textbooks on a daily basis. No names mentioned, of course, but I get the hint.
For now, I will continue to learn about implementing technology and use it when and where I can. I need to develop both confidence and competence in the field before I gear up for the fight. I’m looking forward to the day when, very soon, I will be in a position to exert more influence on our policies regarding technology use in the classroom.
Valerie
It sounds like you’re making them nervous. You must be doing something right!
Comment by kevin brady — February 7, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
Valerie,
I have a card posted on the board in my office that has a quote by Theodore Roosevelt ~ “Do what you can where you are with what you have.” I try to remember this when I start pushing hard for change, and I don’t see any results. Sometimes it’s hard to remember that the best change starts small and spreads from there. So, take a look at your classroom, do what you can with what you have there, and the rest will follow…slowly but surely. And while you’re at it, keep blogging and sharing so those of us who know how hard change is can help.
With that said, if you are interested in trying to set up a project to get your students excited about technology, let me know. I bet I can find some 5th grade teachers to collaborate with you!
Our two geographical areas are vastly different, and I bet all the students would learn a lot from each other!
Also, if you haven’t already, check out Twitter and find some good Tech Ed people to follow. It’s a great resource for ideas!!
Tina
Comment by tcoffey — February 16, 2008 @ 1:45 am
Tina,
I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. I will have to start small to see any change. If and when others notice the changes, I’ll be happy to share what I have learned. Until then I must be patient. Thanks for the advice.
Valerie
Comment by Valerie — February 17, 2008 @ 10:59 pm