Journal #7

Robert Kadel in his article, “Technology and Teacher Retention,” examines the impact technology may have on keeping teachers in a district and the process schools should follow to create a technology supportive environment (TSE). Kadel acknowledges that many teachers who recently graduate from teaching programs are knowledgeable on the technology available to them in the classroom if they are teaching in a district without that technology or the support necessary to implement it in the classroom they may be tempted to leave the district. Kadel describes the four features of a TSE as defined by Lessen and Sorensen they include; creating framework for technology, ensuring technology is a priority, continued growth, and providing necessary training for teachers, students, and staff. Kadel emphasized the importance of schools assessing the teachers technology competency before establishing a program for technology. The article also describes a program for technology that has seen success. There are three phases, the first being a planning phase where the school assesses their staff and site on the readiness for technology and creates a plan, the school also selects teachers who while be mentored in the first year of the program.. The second phases which last the first year of the program includes two yearly workshops for staff to improve knowledge of technology, mentoring of selected teachers, online meetings for administrators, and reassessment of technology competency. The third phase is similar to the second phase but know the previously mentored teachers due the mentoring for new teachers.

What impact will a TSE have on me as a teacher?
I think a TSE is essential for teachers to provide students with opportunities to enhance their learning experience. How can teachers be expected to provide their students with the necessary and adequate knowledge of technology without the support of the school, administrators and district.


What is a TSE?
To me a TSE is an environment is an environment that provides teachers with an adequate amount of technological resources and training to ensure that teachers are comfortable themselves with technology as well as using it in the classroom, whether it be as a teaching resource or enhancement of student learning.