By Tweed W. Ross, Ed.D.
NETS-T IB

As you look back over the past year, I'm sure you'll remember at least one occasion when you ended up working for technology rather than the other way around. Summer is a great time to get a grip on the technology monster and harness the potential that digital technologies hold for teaching.

During the summer months, take some time to focus on improving the technology skills you already have and think about ways to incorporate them into the classroom. To do this, you will need to spend some quality time on your computer. If you don't have your own computer at home, arrange with the administration to take one of the school's machines home with you.

The first step in improving your technological lesson plan is to make a commitment not to learn a new skill or program this summer. Instead, ask yourself, "What technology do I know, but have not practiced effectively in my teaching?" Your answer can be as simple as word processing or web searching, or as complex as relational database management.

Once you have identified areas of improvement, take that skill and develop some effective learning units for your class in the fall. Here are three possibilities, but feel free to come up with many more.

• A word processing lesson might consist of well-crafted letters to parents or brochures relating to activities you know will come up during the year.



• A web-searching lesson could incorporate web research with thematic learning activities for your students that will cover a range of interests and abilities.



• A database project could involve working with students to collect basic information and organizing different categories that allow students to compare their likes, dislikes, and interests.

Also, keep in touch with your colleagues over the summer. You can brainstorm about new ways to teach technology in the classroom and share insider tips and tricks.