A Dozen Ways to
Get Teachers Going
 
1 - Avoid Overwhelming
  • Small pieces of info
  • Remember what it was like to be a beginner.
 

2 - Direct Attention

  • Take them by the tail
  • Direct, Guide, Show, don't do
 

3 - Model Troubleshooting

  • Show problems
  • Brainstorm solutions
  • Model options
 

4 - Encourage Practice

  • Repeat now
  • Write it down
  • Do it again
  • Put it on a card
  • At least 3 times in a row
  • Then, do it tomorrow!
 

5 - Empathize

  • Use soothing words: let's try it together cool… you did it
  • Use silly words: it must not be listening
 

6 - Provide Helpful Print Support

  • Provide good maps
    • Step-by-Step
    • Lists of ideas
    • Screen dumps
    • Post it notes
    • Note cards
 

7 - Give Treats

  • Handouts
  • Help cards
  • Websites
  • Folders
  • Bookmarks
 

8 - Sneak Up

  • "Stop by"
    • with a comment
    • with encouragement with an idea
 
 
9 - Mix old and new
  • Books & Internet
  • Science Labs & Computer Graphs
 

10 - Be a little goofy

  • Encourage
    • new mousepads
    • screen borders
    • fun front page
    • cool fonts
    • clip art & photos
 

11 - Untie Teachers

  • Encourage teachers to find:
    • time
    • resources
    • lessons
 

12 - Find a Friend

  • Encourage
    • pairs
    • small groups
    • teams
    • collaboration
 
Finding the right combination
 
Be the knight
Save the day.
Dispel myths
Be positive, Be proactive
Be vocal.
Share your skills and knowledge
Don't scare them off.
Limit techie talk. Focus on practical
Carry the technology flag.
Be an advocate.
Avoid telling.
Put on a happy face. Be a guide.
Talk. Walk the talk
Be confident. Be competent
Working with Teachers
You need enthusiasm, tact, and patience to work with teachers.
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 Created by Annette Lamb, 7/00