The thought of working in the field of educational technology has always interested me. It is an ever changing field that seems like it could be a constant challenge for someone in the field. It also seems to be on the leading edge of k-12 education, we have just scratched the surface of what we can do and develop in this field. With that said there are some competencies that I wonder about when it comes to my skill set. I have also zero experience in dealing with the fixing of hardware and creating of new soft wares. I know that this isn't something that everyone has to deal with when it comes to this field but, but with the way budgets are getting, I wouldn't be surprised if schools start to look for the jack of all trades candidate.
With all that being said, I think that some of the biggest things that you need to be in this field is a great leader,decisive with your decisions, and a good teacher. I really believe that anyone in the teaching profession already is a born leader. Being a leader or advocate for your colleagues can be different however. Being a leader is not something that is given to one person it is something that is earned. It is earned through hard work, respect for people, and a willingness to listen and take action. These are things that I try to bring to all aspects of my life, and what I think I would bring to the field of instructional design and technology. The part about being decisive is also key in any leadership position you need to be decisive ; especially in this field. There would be many important decisions to make, and they should be made in a timely matter. The last thing that I think I can do and what is important in this field is the teaching aspect. At some point you will have to teach new technologies to people. This goes right back to the question that was asked, a good teacher is competent and knowledgeable about their field. You need to know the program or idea that you are teaching like the back of your hand, if not then there could be holes in your teaching. It is because of this reason that I know that I have a long way to go before I ready to be a leader in this field, but with time hopefully I will be there.
You made a good point in saying with budget problems that teachers will be expected to know more and more about technology. Teachers and any staff are expected to take on more roles. I don't know much about solving the technical problems or developing software either.
ReplyDeleteYou are right about teachers needed to know more about technology, how to use it and how to incorporate it into the classroom. I also like your comment about leaders--teachers are considered leaders and have more influence on people's lives than they are given credit for. Many times we see more of our students than their family does. We are all going to have to step up the technology to keep our students interested as we are competing with the ipods, gaming systems, and daily technology our students are using and keep them interested in learning and how these things can help expand their knowldedge.
ReplyDeleteMargie
Yes, working in the field would definitely be a challenge to whomever would be in it because of all of the changing, evolving, growing and improving that will continue in the field. Someone could not stay at the same level of competency and do well in the technology field. I also like how you said that someone working in the instructional design and technology field also needs to have teaching skills. Even if they are not a classroom teacher, they do need to know how to teach technology to others in ways that they will understand and be meaningful/applicable. It sounds like you are well on your way to becoming the leader you desire to be--hard working, respectful, listening and taking action. I think being a good listener is one of the most valuable leadership abilities. I know of leaders who are quick to take action or speak but do not listen.
ReplyDeleteI would have to disagree with your statement that anyone in the teaching field is a born leader. I have met many who are currently great teachers but would not make very good leaders. One may be able to "lead" a classroom but that is very different from leading staff and peers. This sort of leading is important amongst educational staff and for instructional design but not everyone is able to provide this leading. It is a skill that is developed and like you said, earned.
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