Discussion Circle # 2: Targeted Conversations Notes
What are some ways that states can support the use of technology in rural areas to foster collaborative relationships between teacher peers, coaches, and/or mentor teachers?
Facilitator: Heather Zavadsky, Research Scientist, Building State Capacity and Productivity Center
The following comments from participants were captured during the discussion, which involved individuals from multiple states sharing their responses to the question and addressing this and other topics of interest. A facilitator hosted the conversation and took the notes that are reflected here.
Challenges
- Equity of access (keeping up with changes)
- Bandwidth
- Ongoing training as a tool for quality
- Policies/practices bind time and space
- Lack of flexibility
- Disincentive policies
- Trust/fear
- Keeping TA support
- State systems for compliance
Solutions
- ACCESS distance learning courses (AL)
- Regional visits
- LEAD Alabama
- Technology Lending Program Grant (TX)
- Study on School District Network Capabilities (TX)
- North Carolina Digital Learning Plan for K-12 Education
- TPACK
- Education Service Center focus group/district leaders (TX)
- Project Share
- Learning Forward