Technology+Facilitator+Standard+II+Reflection

**Reflection **  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. I found that to be the case at my school.
 * Reflections on Technology Facilitator Standard II: Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experiences **

 I collaborated with music teachers to discuss music technology in the elementary classroom. I concentrated on free or low cost ways to incorporate technology and power up the music classroom. I compiled my ideas in a presentation “Technology Toolbox For Your Elementary Classroom” at Texas Music Educators Association Convention in San Antonio. My favorite part of the presentation was the segment on QR codes. I encouraged teachers to record mini lessons to go with each recorder song they teach, and then link the lesson via a QR code on each page. Conversely, I suggested that students record themselves playing and submit it for assessment to the teacher via a QR code in an email. It was real, it was doable, and it works.

 At the same conference, I attended many sessions on music technology, and came back to my school knowing that a music technology lab was needed. I had eager teachers, and 15 recently updated iMac computers donated by another department. We are now working on a new curriculum where students create musical cadences and experiment with various inversions and resolutions using Garage Band, rather than watching the teacher write them on the board.

 I recall one of the Lamar professors stating that the curriculum must drive the technology, not the other way around. A Washington Post article cautions against using technology for the sake of technology – not what works or help kids learn (Welsh, 2008). Helping teachers plan and design student centered learning experiences is the key to avoiding that technology pitfall.

References: W elsh, P. (2008, February 10). A school that’s too high on gizmos. //The Washington Post//. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/08/AR2008020803271.html

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.