Tomorrow begins my favorite week of the summer. Eight years ago, I paid out of pocket to go to a four-day technology integration workshop. I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. I didn’t have a job when I signed up. I had hesitated the year before about going to the workshop. I was worried about a portion they called a “job-shadow” at a real business. Little did I know that this workshop would change my life!
The BestPrep Tech Integration workshop is four-day experience where teachers have the chance to learn about best-practice with Technology Integration. They work in small groups with a Tech Integration Specialist to integrate different forms of technology into an existing lesson. Break-out sessions cover topics on emerging or meaningful technology tools that are transforming student learning. Keynote speakers highlight trends in technology and business that our students will meet once they enter the working world.
The highlight, and the element that sets this workshop apart, is that they connect business people with each teacher. Teachers get a chance to visit a worksite and discuss skills their students will need in their journey after school. It’s intriguing, as many teachers have not been part of the business world, having stayed in education their entire lives. From a home-business to an international corporation, teachers experience a wide variety of environments. The sharing conversations the next day are simply amazing.
I could talk for a long time about this workshop. I first experienced it as a participant. And, I’ve returned year after year to help guide my fellow teachers through this great week. This is the first place I had the title of “Technology Integration Specialist.” I will wear my BestPrep shirt proudly tomorrow as we kick off this event.
To learn more, check out http://www.bestprep.org/programs/technology_integration_workshop/