On Wednesday, October 6, 2011, Afton, Liz and I had the pleasure of interviewing Ted Wilson, the principal of G.V. about the technology in the school. As someone who grew up interested in technology, he has used his knowledge to integrate it into teaching since he started teaching at the school in 1997 and continued to do so as the principal. Having been both a teacher and a principal, he has some great insight into the value of technology in education.
Mr. Wilson first began using computers as a student himself in high school, so he knows first hand how technology can draw people into learning. As a new teacher, he took his own experiences and made using technology a priority in his classroom; with the benefit of good timing, he was able to be influential in some of Glacier Valley's big purchases in 1997 when the state gave out a bond issue for buying technology. Other money from the state since then has allowed Glacier Valley to remain on top of changing technologies. The recent renovation of the school brought with it a good wireless network in addition to other things.
Ted believes that technology is important because it is a subject similar to art and science. These subjects are the part of the curriculum that is the main motivator for many students, giving them a reason for coming to school and working hard. With technology, teachers are able to extend their class projects into meaningful, powerful activities. In fact, his favorite thing about technology is seeing teachers who have extended the writing process to have students make audio and video productions in their classes.
Ted has noticed that as this generation of students moves through the school that they are very comfortable with technology in addition to being motivated by it. Even kindergarten students can use laptops. With technology, even a simple thing (like a digital camera) can create an engaging, motivating, relevant experience.
It was very interesting talking with Ted about his experiences, and I am thankful to him for taking some time out of his schedule to sit down and talk with us.
Emily--
ReplyDeleteIt's awesome that GV has a principal so invested in technology integration. I'm starting to see a trend with the teachers at GV incorporating technology... as in, they are all for it. Interesting he groups art, music, and technology together. I agree they all share motivation and innovation with student's interest.
I agree with Rosie...it seems like an administrator who is willing and motivated to apply time towards getting the funds/resources for technology is critical in getting tech integrated into curriculum and each child's school day. Also that is a great quote, 'technology...similar to art and science' as a motivating force behind students interest in school. Its obvious when kids like what they are doing and each of those subjects really hooks their attention and provides them invaluable skills to apply to real life.
ReplyDeleteAgreed to both comments and you, Emily! Having administrators be supportive and help fund technology is certainly away to push the importance of technology and it's every-day use by students and teachers in the school. I love how much it appears to be integrated at Glacier Valley as well --it's exciting and inspiring. Keep us posted as to what's going on! :)
ReplyDeleteMan, those of us at Harborview are kind of jealous of your principal being so tech savvy! What stuck out to me was his comment about technology being that motivating force for some kids to just come to school. Its so important for kids to WANT to come to school (especially with the deadline to meet AYP right around the corner)! It really cool that he recognizes that and is trying to cater to student needs and interests.
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