Training and Consultation Services for Education
UC Berkeley Summer Institute - Digital media and primary sources
There are over 90 Common Core State Standards that directly call for integration of technology into the curriculum. Many more refer to or are compatible with digital tools. The challenge faced by educators is to apply technology tools in a pedagogically sound and meaningful way. Technology must start with and further the learning goals and not merely be a distraction or a gimmick. This requires carefully analyzing how technology can support these goals – from school-wide programs down to the individual classroom.
Teachers are overwhelmed with their normal workload and do not have the time or expertise to sift through the countless technology tools and develop a technology integration plan. Research has demonstrated that teachers have the desire to incorporate technology but the lack of training and ongoing support stands as a primary obstacle.
Teachers are overwhelmed with their normal workload and do not have the time or expertise to sift through the countless technology tools and develop a technology integration plan. Research has demonstrated that teachers have the desire to incorporate technology but the lack of training and ongoing support stands as a primary obstacle.
PD Through the U.C. Berkeley History-Social Science Project (UCBHSSP)
I have been a fellow with the UCBHSSP's Teacher Research Group since 2009. The UCBHSSP has a proven track record of providing quality consultation for teachers and educators in the implementation of the academic literacy strategies called for in the Common Core State Standards. Over the last twelve years in collaboration with history teachers, they have developed a large, effective set of paper-based literacy strategies that promote deep analysis and thinking skills. Up to this point, the strategies have utilized print and paper-based media.
In my current capacity as the Director of Technology Integration for the UCBHSSP, I have engaged the Project in exploring the challenge of utilizing technology tools in pursuit of these same literacy-related Common Core skills. Through the Teacher Research Group, weekend workshops and our Summer Institutes, we have been successfully providing leadership to teachers and other educators in bringing the essence of our many literacy strategies to the digital realm.
In my current capacity as the Director of Technology Integration for the UCBHSSP, I have engaged the Project in exploring the challenge of utilizing technology tools in pursuit of these same literacy-related Common Core skills. Through the Teacher Research Group, weekend workshops and our Summer Institutes, we have been successfully providing leadership to teachers and other educators in bringing the essence of our many literacy strategies to the digital realm.
Approach to Professional Development
|
I can provide training to staff either independently or through my relationship with UC Berkeley History-Social Science Project. Trainings can take the form of a single workshop, a series of inter-related session, or long-term in-class or whole school support.
The workshop model is beneficial in providing a basic overview or introduction to a topic. However experience, corroborated by research data, shows that it is much more effective to engage in a long-term support/coaching relationship directly with a cohort of interested teachers engaged in direct application of the tools and strategies to the classroom. This approach, promoted by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and others, allows follow up with teachers as they collaboratively navigate and explore the often confusing and intimidating world of technology integration. Please contact me or the UC Berkeley History-Social Science Project to discuss and tailor a professional development plan to meet your ed-tech needs.
Note: The content of this "Edtech'sploration" website solely reflects the opinions and analysis of Devin Hess. Contact the UC Berkeley History-Social Science Project directly to learn more about their programs and professional development offerings. |
 Supporting teachers as they explore and adopt digital tools
during a UCBHSSP Summer Institute.
|
