Emerging technology can be made valuable to others if these are aware that those technologies exist and they are prepared to leverage their benefits by learning how to use them effectively. I will conduct staff development sessions with colleagues at work to show them new technologies which exist in their fields of work and how those technologies can bring positive impact on them. I will also arrange to have various vendors and developers of new technologies visit my work place and make presentations to the entire staff. From time to time, I will facilitate field trips so they can see those emerging technologies at work as this can help to convince them of the need to adapt to new ones too. My intervention will on a basis or need, equality and development of people not just at my work place but wherever they are.
Once my colleagues are exposed and maybe have access to the technology I will work with them until they become conversant with the emerging technology. Greenhill (2009) believes that people need to be coached to make full use of Emerging technologies. I can therefore work out a study plan for them to follow and that will help them master the use of their technology. This is important as there is a learning curve in every new technology and without good support and scaffolding some colleagues are likely to give up trying. Writing articles in the local papers, holding sessions with community groups and joining online communities are just a few ways of achieving that goal without offending or prejudicing anyone.
Reference:
Greenhill Kathrine (2009). Why Learning About Emerging technology is a Part of Every Librarian's Job. Murdoch University, Western Austrailia. Retrieved November 19, 2009 from
http://www.caudit.edu.au/educauseaustralasia09/assets/papers/tuesday/Kathryn-Greenhill.pdf
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Lawrence,
ReplyDeleteHaving vendors come into your workplace is an excellent way to introduce the staff to emerging technologies. Where I teach the Center for eaching and Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) has a spring technology buffet. Faculty from our university as well as other nearby schools who have been using technology in an innovative way are invited to present what they have been doing in their classes. At the same time vendors are invited to come and demonstrate what they have to offer. As you noted, this can convince faculty to engage in using new technology. Lunch is also provided. "If you feed them, they will come."
You are also correct about engaging in a community of learners to gain expertise as well as share expertise in using technologies. Sometimes hearing something come from another source than someone you are familiar with makes what is said more important and useful.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas. Your blogs postings are interesting and informative.
Gary
Lawrence-
ReplyDeleteVery interesting post! I do think that some of the goals listed may be idealistic in certain school systems or workplaces, given budget constraints for staff development and field trips. Most vendors and developers require a fee to come to schools or businesses unless they plan to purchase their products. How do you propose to move this from an idealistic goal to a realistically possible plan?
Wendi