Reflection

Do you consider yourself a novice or experienced technology user? Are familiar with the terms Web 2.0 application, hash tag, Linked, BYOD, PLN, Twitter, Facebook, and Blog? If this was pop quiz, how did you do? If it helps, I didn’t pass the digital quiz but I am sure that you did your best. This week I have been studying the concept of digital leadership as a school leader. I am a firm believer that technology is a dormant plethora of possibilities that can help improve teaching and learning.  

As Gandhi stated, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” The digital transformation of a school needs to start with the leader of the school. I can’t change others but I can work on improving my digital knowledge.  I would consider myself a novice technology user when it comes to social media. I didn’t see how social media could improve my practice as a teacher or educational leader. Social medial, Web 2.0 applications, do have a place in the school. This week trough Twitter I have been able to connect with political leaders, school leaders and educators. I have read Blogs of other inspirational educators who share the same passion for education.  This digital interactions have allowed me to take charge of my own learning and grow professionally. Now I see the endless possibilities of how technology can improve teaching and learning. Facebook can be used to help engaged the community and tell our story to the public. Teachers in the school that already have Facebook pages can be authorized to administer and manage the page. Another tool that I intend to use as a principal is a Blog to communicate with the staff. The Blog can be a means to enhance professional development in the school. Teacher can be empowered to take charge on their own learning. 

21^st century students’ world is different than what school offers. Today’s students have grown up in a technology-rich world but it does not mean that they know how too effectively and responsible utilize technology. This is a new task that needs to be addressed by the school. Teaching and learning can be improved by incorporating technology in the classroom. “Technology has the power to engage students, unleash creativity, and allow them to apply what they have learned to demonstrate conceptual mastery.” (Sheringer pg. 65)

My challenge as a school leader will be to foster, support, and promote 21^st century pedagogy which includes technology usage in the classroom. I will need to continue learning and sharing with others that have traveled this rewarding path before.