Why NYSCATE?

The first of a two part post on the NYSCATE conference I am attending this week. I have had the opportunity the last three years I believe to attend NYSCATE here in Rochester. NYSCATE stands for the New York State Computers and Technology in Education group that is an affiliate of ISTE. Lots of acronyms for sure but NYSCATE is the conference that provides to be my north in educational technology. Conference attendees tend to be primarily teachers and technology coordinators/directors of NYS districts with some administrators, board members, students, and other groups mixed in. I am continually exposed to the ever expanding technology tools available for students and the adults that play a role in their learning. The theme I am hearing more this year more and more is that technology needs to serve the learning rather than the other way around. It was said in years past but more consistently given this year. It will not and should not be used to replace sound instruction but should be used as a way to help engage students in the learning in a medium students are very comfortable in using. Are we giving students a choice in the way they can demonstrate their learning? Lots of blockers to having students use technology in school like they use out of school but solutions are to be had; they just need to be discussed with all stakeholders involved. Two questions resonate with me so far. Are we including students in the conversations about technology use? Are our current policies (including technology) aligned with our district goals and core commitments?

My next post on NYSCATE will occur after the conference and synthesis of thought. There is a lot to take in and the challenge for me is to then put some of what I have learned into application, not only for myself but for the BT admins. and staff that I work with.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Ancoria Impario - Still I learn

The title sums up my approach to the field as well as my hobbies. To be a lifelong learner. I hear this a lot these days and it holds true to my belief system. Actually, it played a large role in my transition from classroom teacher to middle school administrator. Upon signing up for my first administration classes there was no grand design to be a building principal or superintendent at the time. Rather, I simply wanted the challenge of continued learning in my field and stepping outside of my teaching comfort zone. Tiring, yes, but something I felt very good by doing and very comfortable with. Lately I have had some opportunities to continue this learning. In October, a number of Bay Trail staff both attended and presented at the New York State Middle School Association conference in Rochester. Winton Buddington and I presented a session on School 2.0 for administrators. In presenting I find there is a large amount of learning and want to thank Winton for continuing to challenge me in this way. Kudos to Bay Trail staff for stepping up and showing other New York state educators the great activities planned for Bay Trail students.

I attended Bill Daggett's session on 21st century learners and left the session shaken by the changing world around us and changes New York State will be experiencing soon. It seems like education has largely remained untouched by the sweeping changes in industry and technology and with the presentation it appears things are likely to hit closer to home very soon. Soon, I will attend the New York State Technology in Education Conference coming to Rochester. This conference started me on my educational technology journey a few years ago and helps remind me of the changing world we live in. It is my hope that anyone who reads this blog (not sure if there are many) will take the time to reflect on their learning since September, plan for opportunities of new learning, and share out here what those are. I look forward to hearing and sharing your experience.