Technology Surveys

As I began the technology surveys I felt that I was fairly literate in the area of school technology needs. However, I now feel like there is much I need to learn if I am to adequately use technology in my school.

The results of my Technology Applications Inventory show that I do have strengths when it comes to Solving Problems with Technology Tools. However, these strengths have more to do with my abilities as a teacher, not necessarily how my students are able to use technology or how I am able to incorporate technology in my class. As a band director, it is hard (but not impossible) to use technology in my class like other subjects can. The main way I use technology in my class is by the use of websites and email to communicate and update students and parents about classroom activities or upcoming events. “Letters home” have been replaced by emails and handbooks and contact info is shared through websites.

My weaknesses do feel overwhelming when it comes to technology use and the surveys have focused those weaknesses pretty clearly. As I completed the SETDA Teacher Survey, I realized I know little about what is expected of the students or teachers at my school. Many of the areas of the survey simply did not apply to my classroom. However, there were many questions that made me rethink my approach to instruction. I think the main thing is that we do not have the funding or technology resources at my school to do more than just the bare minimum as required by the TEKS. Band, and other elective classes, are such unique areas of study that we need to be creative and think outside the box to incorporate technology supported instruction.