Nibs from Nancy

PPS has invested megabucks to provide teachers  with multimedia classrooms to integrate technology.  Teachers are selected for a multimedia classroom through an application process.  Teachers that have demonstrated use of technology and are interested in kicking it up a notch received awards.  It would be really nice if everyone could receive the awards, but that’s cost prohibitive.   Don’t you just hate that phrase, “cost prohibitive?”  Anywho..maybe over time we will see more and more.  The first rounds of MCPS awards included a ceiling mounted data projector, laptop,  DVD-combo unit, speakers, universal remote,  and training, and later expanded to include wireless keyboard, Promethean Board, document camera, Active-votes and other ancillaries.  Sounds pretty cool, huh? Plus, TRTs are  available in the schools to provide support  to plan and execute  technology integrated lessons.  Many have lots of ideas for activities, lessons and projects to help teachers in the classroom.   In return, teachers are being asked to complile a portfolio that  demonstrates that they are using the equipment in the classroom to integrate technology into teaching and learning.  Some of the lessons are taught with the TRT, some without.  The portfolio can be completed throughout the year.  Sounds pretty simple.   Right?  You would think!  So…. what’s all the flap about the MCPS Portfolios?    I have fielded a few comments  lately and  some folks are not happy about documentation.  Although the focus has changed from usage tracking to  development and implementation of classroom lessons, some are still disgruntled. Perhaps some folks are finding that time is a big obstacle.  Some….well, I’m not sure.  Help me out here, people.  You got the equipment.  You have help available.  You demonstrate you are using what you  received to improve instruction.   So…what’s the problem?