Coaching with Technology
Deep Learning
Deep learning is a term author Jim Knight uses to describe both positive and negative experiences that permanently alter the way you do things (p. 16). A deep learning experience for me was when I saw firsthand the effects trauma can have on children. Before spending extended time with children who have experienced trauma, I thought a one-size-fits-all approach to classroom behavior management was beneficial for all students. I used positive reinforcement to encourage behaviors deemed "good". After seeing the effects trauma can have on children and attending many trainings that taught me how to best meet the needs of children who have experienced trauma, I have completely changed my approach to behavior management. I now have a holistic view of each of my students, striving to do what is best for each individual to allow them to remain regulated, safe, and loved in my classroom. Because of this deep learning experience, I will always have classroom routines, have fidgets and sensory toys, and intentionally know each of my students to understand their triggers which results in their dysregulation.
Deep Learning and Technology
Deep learning experiences like the one mentioned above are impactful. As instructional coaches, we must strive to make the coaching process a deep learning experience which will foster improved instruction. One way we are able to do that is through using technology within our coaching model to identify a goal, learn strategies to achieve the goal, and implement the learned techniques to improve instruction. When researching the effects of coaches using technology to enhance the performance of their students, Abdupattayevich and G'ayratovich (2023) state, "today, modern technologies have a significant impact on the training process" (p. 51). They go on to conclude, "the results of our research confirm that technology plays a key role in improving the effectiveness of the training process of students" (Abdupattayevich and G'ayratovich, 2023, p. 51).
Coaches can implement technology through videos to start their coaching impact cycle. With the permission of the educator, the coach can help facilitate recording the educator as they teach. According to Knight (2017), "in education, we've known about the power of video at least since the 1960s when micro teaching was studied at Stanford University" (p. 30). When given permission to video, the video "gives a teacher and coach a perspective on the classroom that cuts through perceptual errors" (Knight, 2017, p. 31). The instructinoal video leads to a clearer picture of the classroom. It shows the taught instruction, the student responses and engagement, and the body language of those in the classroom. This allows for the coach and educator to collaborate to identify instructional goals. Having videos of an educator's starting and ending points is also an incredible way to look at progress because it can be seen back-to-back, highlighting the progress made through the coaching cycle.
Watch this video to discover more ways to incorporate technology into instructional coaching to make the most impact on instruction! The video follows a school district in Pennsylvania that has integrated technology into instructional coaching.
References:
Parmonov Akmal Abdupattayevich, & Shokirov Shuxrat G’ayratovich. (2023). IMPROVING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE TRAINING PROCESS OF STUDENTS. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE & INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH ISSN: 2277-3630 Impact Factor: 8.036, 12(09), 50–52. Retrieved from https://gejournal.net/index.php/IJSSIR/article/view/1971
Hey Meredith, fantastic post! Having those deeply personal experiences, although not always pleasant at the moment, is so important to the growth of a teacher. As instructional coaches, we need to ensure that we are there not only to ask the right questions and to share resources but also to listen. Sometimes our teachers don't need a solution to a problem, they just need someone to listen. As Koh, Chai, & Lim (2020, p. 121) state, "“Teachers who receive instructional coaching report higher levels of self-efficacy, which is linked to increased instructional effectiveness and greater student engagement.” Building those relationships is paramount to developing a coaching cycle that creates genuine change. According to Knight (2018, p.4), "Instructional coaching is one of the most powerful forms of professional development because it is personalized, intensive, and focused on practical improvements in the classroom. Coaches help teachers identify areas of need, learn new strategies, and implement those strategies effectively, leading to better teaching and improved student outcomes." The role of an instructional coach can never be understated.
ReplyDeleteReferences:
Knight, J. (2018). The Impact Cycle: What instructional coaches should do to foster powerful improvements in teaching. Corwin Press.
Koh, J. H. L., Chai, C. S., & Lim, W. Y. (2020). Teacher professional development for TPACK-21CL: Effects on teacher ICT integration and student outcomes. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 57(5), 1175-1200. https://doi.org/10.1177/0735633118783184
Many components tie into technology implementation. I believe user training is a key component of any new technology implementation. Technology training is critical for a successful implementation. Training allows maximum return on investment and allows educators to use the technology to their full potential. Furthermore, change creates uncertainty; however, with the proper training, that uncertainty can be eliminated. Williams (2017) states that there is a disconnect in technology training across educational programs in the country. Successful adoption hinges on appropriate training.
ReplyDeleteWilliams, M. E. (2017). An Examination of Technology Training Experiences from Teacher Candidacy to In-Service Professional Development. Journal of Instructional Pedagogies, 19.
Tomeka Jones