Preparing to Use these Tools

Preparing to Use these Tools

Phase One:

Talk to...

your tech coordinator

about unblocking needed sites

your administrators

about using Open Source applications

start small: start with browser (Firefox) and add-ons
iGoogle

Hardware: Phase One

microphone or headset
digital camera
webcam
S-Video cable (make your TV and your computer be friends)

Mindset

Think about your Standards. Define your area of focus and see how technology can assist your learners.
Take it one step at a time!
Start with ONE THING! Use it yourself for a while.
Collaborate with another teacher when you're ready.

Go to your School Librarian!

Designate an hour a week to play with new tools. Get comfortable...
...but know that technology doesn't always work. So always have a partner.

Phase Two

Talk to...

vendors to find out technical specs and requirements of hardware and software
other teachers (in your district, or online!) who are currently using that product
online forums to get tips and tricks

Hardware: Phase Two

digital projector
interactive board
classroom speaker

Mindset:

demonstrate the usefulness of these tools to your district
find grants and funding through school and other resources

Phase Three
...ready, set, integrate!