Session 4-Diffusion of Innovation

After listening to Dr. Newberry's podcast on Everett Roger's model of the Diffusion of Innovation I would have to categorize myself as and early adapter. Although I can be cautious at times, I find myself trying to be more of a role model and one who is socially connected to staff, students, and the community. I feel that there needs to be good leadership when it comes to technology. Although we have staff on our campus who might be considered innovators, they are not likely to be leaders. On the flip side we have teachers who are very cautious about any new ideas, and still others that are very resistant to change.

I feel that I am an early adapter because I like to try new things, and new ways of doing things. I believe that technology can enhance much of the curriculum that we see in schools today. Students themselves are learning in new ways as well. I totally believe if there is a willingness or ability to learn new things using technology then I think it should be implemented. If you can create a high enough awareness or interest than I feel that you shouldn't hold back on anything. What better way than to try it out and personally evaluate it.

I use technology in my room in a number of different ways. I use it as a management tool. I also use it as a teaching tool to drive instruction in curricular areas. I also use it as a resource tool both for myself and my students. Finally, I use it to help students create things that expresses how well they learned something. For example, I did several lessons for my ELD students on the elements of art; priamarily focusing on vocabulary related to art. I used the Internet and PowerPoint presentations to drive the instruction. I later allowed students to create their own PowerPoint presentations.

In addition, I am one of the technology committee representatives for our school, and periodically go to district meetings. It is my goal to become more of an involved individual in this area, and take on more of a role as a leader in this area. As in all schools there is a large group that falls into the early and late majority. These teachers are very cautious and resistant to change, and make it more difficult for positive change to happen. I feel that with increased knowledge about technology that more teachers would be more open to changes.

Action Log:

Listened to Dr. Newberry's podcast on Diffusion of Innovation.
Went over my notes
Plan to do some follow-up on this topic
Blogged about 3 people in class.
Started preparing class for video project on comprehension skills.
Started looking up information on human interaction and technology.