Journal 5: Can't We All Just Get Along - NETS V

Not everyone speaks the language of technology. As it is implemented into schools it is important that there is constant communication between the teachers and the IT techs. IT techs can get frustrated with the constant demands, usually for basic problems, from the teachers. Teachers can get overwhelmed with the new technology and feel they lack the skills or training necessary to operate their classroom. Administrators worry that teacher allow their students to support the technology needs in the class which can be risky due to students hacking into systems and changing grades or retrieving restricted information.
In an attempt to help teachers implement new technology into their classroom, an IT department was created for one school district. To bridge the gap they set up meetings with district administrators to discuss specific problems and needs. This would be a good model to bring into all school districts. Constant communication can help alleviate some of the frustration teachers and techs feel when either one don’t feel understood. Explaining the reasoning behind certain requests allows the other to see the bigger picture and understand the justification of the request. It also helps when a request is denied because it eliminates any resentment that may brew.

What are frustrations that you should be aware of that happen between teachers and IT techs?
Most frustrations between teachers and IT techs come from a lack of understanding or having a gap in their knowledge. It is important to read a district’s tech plan so you know what type of program is being run on your school computer. Any software that is bought should go through the tech departments so that compatible software is bought. When we don’t understand how to use something it is easy to give up. Techs can get frustrated with teachers for not trying to solve problems on their own and taking the time to try and work through a problem. Instead they instantly ask students to solve problems – which can cause security issues, or ask the techs to solve the most basic of problems and there by wasting their time. Technology has its own language and teachers can feel lost and confused when techs start explaining themselves using computer jargon.

As a teacher, how can you help the relationship you have with the tech department?
You can help create a good relationship with the tech department by taking the time to try and understand and learn more about the technology that is used in your classroom. It also helps to fully explain the reasoning behind your request so that the tech understands the needs in your classroom and how it affects the students directly or indirectly. If it is feasible, attending workshops or conferences on technology can help you build a respect and understanding for what they do. It is also important that you go through the tech department before buying any programs to make sure that it is compatible. When problems with technology do arise it is helpful to have the tech’s number close by so you can walk through solving the problem over the phone.

Anderson (2009-2010, January) Can’t We All Just Get Along. Learning & Leading in Technology, 37 (4), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=December_January_No_4_4&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4450&ContentID=24823&DirectListComboInd=D