Sometimes I feel that the staff and I are rushed into implementing new technologies without really understanding what we're doing, or why. Is this concern legitimate?
Most school districts would not adopt a completely new textbook series without first piloting several series in different settings to see what works best. Use of new technologies would benefit from the same approach. The introduction of any innovation results in both expected and unexpected consequences, some positive and others negative. Educators can capitalize on the positives and reduce or eliminate the impact of the negatives through small pilot programs conducted prior to full-scale implementation.
There is evidence that the first use of a new technology tends to become the entrenched use. While piloting may slow down initial widespread use, it will save you and your staff time in the long run.
Submitted by: Susan Brooks-Young
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Leaders' Edge Coordinator: Susan Brooks-Young
