Participants will . . . 

1. Broaden their vision of how schools and the world of work can make use of technology for living, learning, and leading. 

The mere acquisition of new knowledge or development of new technological skills is not enough. If this staff development program is really going to make a difference for students and staff, all of us must learn about and develop a personal and shared district vision of our schools in the future. In other words, we have to develop a restructured context of schools learning, and work in which to apply all this new knowledge and skills. 

2. Develop skills in utilizing technology hardware and software applications learned during prior experiences with technology. 

Many participants of the Tech Academy are concerned with a sequence of courses to be taken. As a starting point, a Technology Curriculum Guideline has been set up with fundamental and supplemental skills. These have been outlined based on the student's technology curriculum to assist in course selection at the appropriate grade level. 

3. Acquire new knowledge and develop skills related to additional technology hardware and software applications.

Take some risks in your learning. Even though you may not see an immediate application of particular software or hardware, you should consider exploring its potential. This way, you can begin to understand how students or staff may be using the technology applications, and you will at least know how to support their use of the technology even if you don't use that technology application yourself. 

4. Develop and strengthen relationships with colleagues in District #108. 

A wonderful outcome of the Tech Academy appears to be the development of relationships and increase communication. Staff members from around the district are learning together. Before, during and after class discussions are providing staff members with opportunities to share their experiences and to talk about new visions of technology use and transformed schools. We are talking about students learning as well as our own learning. What a great way to demonstrate that lifelong learning is alive and well in District #108. Undoubtedly, these new relationships will allow us to develop the trust that is needed to support each others new ideas for necessary or desired restructuring of our schools for the future. 
 
 
 
 
 

Back to Tech Academy Homepage