As a dedicated classroom teacher, you understand the importance of staying up to date with the latest advancements in educational technology. Embracing technology can enhance your teaching practices, engage students, and prepare them for the ever-evolving digital world. While summer break is a time to recharge and rejuvenate, it also presents an opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and explore new tech trends that can transform your classroom. In this blog post, we will explore some strategies to help you keep up with tech trends in education over summer break.
Connect with Professional Learning Networks:
Joining professional learning networks (PLNs) can be an excellent way to stay informed about the latest tech trends in education. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and educational forums are teeming with educators who share their experiences, insights, and recommendations. Engage in discussions, follow influential educators and organizations, participate in Twitter chats, and explore educational hashtags to discover emerging tech trends. A few of my go to spots for gaining information are
Attend Conferences and Workshops:
Many educational conferences and workshops take place during the summer months. These events often offer sessions specifically focused on educational technology. Attending these conferences can provide you with hands-on experience, expert guidance, and a chance to network with like-minded educators. Additionally, keep an eye out for virtual conferences and webinars that you can attend from the comfort of your home. A few exciting conferences to consider for this summer are: ISTE, Lumio Palooza, and the Learning Impact Conference.
Explore Online Resources:
The internet is a treasure trove of information on educational technology. Take advantage of online resources such as blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, and educational websites to keep up with the latest tech trends. Some notable resources to explore include EdSurge, EdTech Magazine, eSchool News, TED-Ed, and the EdTech section of reputable news outlets. Subscribe to newsletters and RSS feeds to receive regular updates directly to your inbox.
Engage in Online Courses and Professional Development:
Summer break offers an excellent opportunity to enroll in online courses and professional development programs focused on educational technology. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer a wide range of courses on topics such as blended learning, gamification, coding, and integrating technology across the curriculum. These courses can help you acquire new skills and knowledge to implement innovative tech trends effectively. Check out this course on how to program with Scratch on Coursera.
Join Educator Communities:
Become an active participant in online communities and discussion forums that cater to educators. Platforms like Edutopia, TeachThought, and the Google for Education Community provide spaces for educators to share ideas, resources, and insights into the latest tech trends. Engaging with other teachers who are passionate about educational technology can inspire you and help you discover new tools and strategies.
Summer break presents an ideal opportunity for classroom teachers to recharge, reflect, and explore new educational technology trends. By leveraging professional networks, attending conferences, exploring online resources, and engaging in professional development, you can stay ahead of the curve and bring exciting tech advancements into your classroom. Embrace the power of technology to transform teaching and learning, and prepare your students.
