Teachers Need More Computer Technology Training
No surprise: Nearly all teachers think classroom computers are a good teaching tool. But most teachers also feel they need more training to use computer technology to its best advantage. School districts agree: Very few rated teachers’ skills at integrating technology as “very good” or higher.
Impact on Student Performance
The Teachers Talk Tech survey found that 93% of teachers responded “very useful” or “somewhat useful” when asked about classroom computers as a teaching tool. An integrated part of the learning process, technology engages students in what educators call “discovery learning.”
Very or Somewhat Useful
2003: 89%
2004: 93%
Not Useful/Don’t Know
2003: 11%
2004: 7%
SOURCE: CDW•G’S 2005 TEACHERS TALK TECH SURVEY
Need for Training
Slightly more than a quarter of all teachers (28%) say they need a “great deal more” computer training to make the best use of computer technology for improving methods and practices, although only a few states have any technology requirements.
28%: A great deal more
51%: Just a little more
15%: Not too much more
7%: None at all
SOURCE: CD W•G’S 2005 TEACHERS TALK TECH SURVEY (ROUNDING ADDS UP TO 101%.)
Skills Challenge
Few school districts feel that teachers' skills at integrating technology rank at “very good” or better.
Yes - 7%
No - 93%
SOURCE: GRUNWALD ASSOCIATES
Send Us Your Lesson Plans
Are you motivating students with technology-related integrated curricula? If so, submit your tech-based lesson plans (500-1,000 words) for possible inclusion in the curriculum supplement to be published in Ed Tech™ in May 2006. If your lesson plan is used, your school will receive a $1,000 donation to help boost its technology programs.
To submit entries, visit www.edtechmag.com and click on the “feedback” button on the left navigation bar. Entries will be accepted through February 14, 2006.
