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Once teachers are familiar and competent with technology tools, it would be expected that they implement its use in the classroom. However, Williamson and Redish (2009) cite a study by CDW-G that revealed that while 85% of teachers used technology for administrative tasks, such as email, attendance and grades, less that 50% had ever used technology to support instruction. This seemed to be especially true of elementary music teachers.

After collaborating with elementary music teachers in my previous district, I compiled a list of activities using technology that they could incorporate into their lessons, along with instructions and troubleshooting tricks. In keeping with the student-centered approached, and to avoid the pitfalls cautioned by a Washinton Post article (Welsh, 2008), the document included lessons that were child-centered, rather than teacher directed. Most of the teachers were ready and willing to try new things, but were unsure how to begin. They were also hesitant to abandon some of their tried and true lessons that students love. I believe the key is to enhance those great lessons, rather than replace them. The ideas, tips and tricks are ways to power up those wonderful lessons.

Jim Moulton, in a blog featured in Edutopia (2007), points out that much of the tecnology in public schools is largely unused. I found that to be the case in elementary music classrooms, where the constraints of large classes and short time periods make it difficult to implement child centered technology rich lessons. The constraints are still there, but the ideas that come out of the collaboration with my colleagues make it possible to implement technology in a way that all students are engaged.

References:

Moulton, J. (2007). How much does your school use its technology pool?: Chances are, not enough. Edutopia: The George Lucas Educational Foundation.

Welsh, P. (2008, February 10). A school that’s too high on gizmos. The Washington Post. Retrieved from []

Williamson, J. & Redish, T. (2009). ISTE's technology facilitation and leadership standards: What every K-12 leader should know and be able to do. Eugene, Or: International Society for Technology in Education.