Innovation and Technology Facilitators

I believe that innovation means looking at the current landscape of you field, asking disruptive questions, and actively seeking answers through action. Not only is it reacting to changes with solutions, but it is taking actions to anticipate needed changes, as well as proactively improve your area of expertise. Innovation requires situational and environmental awareness, creativity in application of new and existing technologies and models, and a willingness to try, fail, then try again. 

On the other side of this though, innovation is not using new technology for the novelty of using it, nor is it necessarily invention of new technologies. It is not re-labeling or re-branding processes. 

As a technology facilitator, some days our jobs are simply to facilitate- to help the status quo along and keep the ball rolling on existing processes, however, I believe it is the responsibility of technology facilitators to be champions of innovation. In many instances, the technology facilitator may be aware of solutions and technology others are not, or may see trends or connections from various areas that go overlooked elsewhere. Technology facilitators should encourage faculty, staff, admins, and other technology facilitators to explore technology, ask questions, and share ideas. They should provide insights and potential solutions, and work with their colleagues and clients to find the best solutions possible, even if that means trial and error.

My graphic is pretty straightforward and highlights some of the key aspects I think is in the role of a technology facilitator. 



Comments

  1. McCune Digital Learning BlogSeptember 3, 2021 at 6:09 AM

    The graphic is a great visual that represents Technology facilitators. I agree with you that the roles switch with the needs of the school but we should always be encouraging teachers. Its not about using new technology or big changes but how you use it in the classroom.

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  2. Thu PhamSeptember 3, 2021 at 9:52 PM

    Yes the graphics are wonderful. I agree that teachers needs that encouragement and support when using new technology. The ability of the facilitator to help with maintaining technology and processes while finding or researching new ways to aid with teaching is important.
    Facilitators willingness to be that model or cheerleader helps to motivate others to develop new use for technology that will benefit the students.

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  3. Max JoplinSeptember 5, 2021 at 12:31 PM

    I love the guy with the sword for championing change. It really does feel like we have to fight for any change we get, especially when it comes to adopting new technology and going against old methods. I wonder if there's more we can do than just facilitate though - technology facilitations almost need to inspire teachers and educators to grow and do better in order to achieve their potential. It's difficult to communicate one's vision, but it's also a vital part of the process.

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