The challenges I anticipate in getting teachers to use ICT in their classrooms
As I complete the final leg of EDRL 6004, I know that I have a number of obstacles to overcome if I am to be an effective reading specialist and convince teachers to use technology to enhance reading and writing in their classes. Firstly, I will need to become a lot more knowledgeable about the technology .I know now that the crash course I received ,is just the tip of the iceberg and that I now need a more in-depth course in ICT. I am convinced however that technology can be integrated into teaching and learning and that it can bring learning to life in the classroom. However, if I am to be a change agent and convince teachers about the benefits of technology, I will need to spend at least three more months experimenting, interacting and exploring the technology. When I demonstrate how the technology can be used in the classroom, teachers must be enthused and eager to try it with their students .I need to be confident and comfortable with the technology before I attempt to share it with other teachers. Many teachers, especially the mature teachers, may have difficulty and feel intimidated by the technology. I can relate to that since I still feel incompetent in terms of ICT. I will therefore be very understanding and patient with other teachers who may experience feelings of inadequacy and maybe unwilling to try the technology. I will conduct a needs assessment of my teachers and plan mini-workshops to enhance their ICT skills (and mine) and use the opportunity to infuse reading within those workshops.