Interview of an Educator
I interviewed a friend of mine named Jon Leach. Jon has been teaching second grade for 15 years! He and I have known each other for over 20. We taught preschool together when we were both still going to school to become elementary school teachers. We both got teaching jobs at the same school after finishing our credential. He has continued to teach while I took a nine year break. I am looking forward to teaching with him again in the fall. I admire how he has continually improved his use of technology in his classroom over the years. In fact, his class was the first class to try 1:1 iPads with his students at our school. He has always been the first to jump at the opportunity to test new technologies in his classroom. My twins are blessed to have Jon as their teacher this year. I have been amazed to see what my children are learning as a result of Jon’s use of new technologies. This is why I chose to interview Jon Leach.
1. When asked how Jon decides which tools to use with his students, he gave the following answer:
“The web (and iPad app) tools my students use were selected by targeting skills in areas which I felt had some weaknesses and/or gaps. Additionally, I would talk to the teachers in the next grade level up and find out what concepts they had difficulty getting across to their students, and then would go back and try and build upon some of those skills. For example: The 3rd grade teachers had a difficult time with problem solving, mostly because their students were not able to master basic arithmetic, as well as times and division tables which would slow them down. I searched and tested several websites (and later, apps) and eventually came across some research on the Timez Attack (and Division Attack) program. I signed up and used the free version with my class the next year. Their motivation, mastery and retention were so impressive that I was able to get other classes to try it, and eventually the school purchased a site license. The majority of my 2nd graders now leave having mastered all mult facts up to 12, and many master division facts up to 12 as well (both of which are actually 3rd grade standards). Because of this, those students can better understand and complete problem solving type problems the moment they enter 3rd grade because they are no longer getting hung up on the arithmetic.”
2. When asked what obstacles Jon had to hurdle to obtain permission to do projects he stated the following:
“I often sign up to beta test a new program, or will demo a free version first. Then, if it is successful, I share with other teachers. This way I can build a case and come back to the administration showing them the need that has been addressed by implementing that particular technology/program.”
3. When asked what advice Jon had for other teachers who wanted to replicate his efforts he responded with the following:
“Don’t be afraid to try new things. In fact, make sure that you challenge yourself to do so. After years of teaching, it is easy to settle into routines and figure that the one way you have been teaching works just fine and doesn’t need a change. There is a tremendous amount of technology (websites, apps, etc) that can be used, and perhaps reach students on many different levels (differentiated instruction), provide needed scaffolding, and give immediate feedback to the student and teacher. Of course, there is also a lot of junk out there too, so you need to weed through it. Sign up as a beta tester, and do not be afraid to contact the company and ask for a free trial period. Many are happy to do so since it may lead to a subscription and/or site license. Also, keep in mind that technology is only a tool and should be seen as just that…not a replacement for good teaching and personal interaction with your students.”
Jon gave excellent advice in regards to how to choose internet tools to use with students, how to get administrators on board with your wants and how to replicate his ideas. I thought it was a great idea that he speaks with his next grade level colleagues to find out what their students struggle with when entering third grade. Using technology tools that eliminate some of those struggles before entering the next grade is a great way to choose which tools to use. I also like that he is willing to beta test new technologies and then share them with colleagues. When lots of staff members like the tool, then administration is more likely to agree that there is a need for it. I totally agree with Jon when he said that educators should not be afraid to try new things and should challenge themselves to do so. Many times I have seen teachers who are stuck in their old ways because it works. Instead of being willing to try new things, they find many excuses as to why they should not attempt them. With technology moving so rapidly, educators need to be willing to move right along with it for the benefit of the students. However, like Jon said, educators need to keep in mind that technology is only a tool and does not replace good teaching and personal interaction with students. Jon does not have a blog to link too.
