With so many educators faced with challenges throughout 2020, needed support is still evident as we begin a new year. The rapid shift to adopting different modalities of teaching, such as virtual and hybrid instruction, has created a huge demand for the use of technology and support for implementing technology into instruction. And there are various scenarios on how we obtain and are provided with support. Sometimes we leverage the internet and instructional how-to videos on our own. There are some educators that may have some type of direct support via their campus or school district like trainings, a technology coach, or instructional specialist. Then there are some educators who feel they are out of their comfort zone with integrating technology and others who just want to invest time in enhancing their instructional practice and will seek out opportunities for further development.

Opportunities for professional development (PD) provide educators with tools and resources to support their instructional practices. However, we often find ourselves overwhelmed with information and the implementation of new knowledge may sometimes get put on the “back burner” for other priorities or needs that often take precedent. Also, often educators may not always have time during the course of a their work week to digest new information or attend these sit and get trainings where the time to experience the productive struggle, of learning how to leverage technology, typically happens after the PD and followed by many questions.

To create more opportunities to support educators, #TechItUp is hosting 1st Saturday Tech Workshops, a professional development where participants engage in the work and develop their technology skills and pedagogy. Theses workshops are NOT designed to be “Sit and Get” learning opportunities where you would only listen to a presentation. The purpose of these sessions are to support educators in working through the productive struggle of understanding how to leverage technology to support their instructional practice. As educators, we all know that the application of learning is important for processing and understanding.

Join us at the next 1st Saturday Tech Workshop and further develop your technology knowledge and skills to support your instructional practice. There is limited space due to the nature of the workshop.

Register for the Next Workshop

Upcoming Sessions

Published by Dr. Jocelyn McDonald

Dr. Jocelyn McDonald is a dynamic force in the realm of education, carving a trail as an Educational Technologist, Podcaster, Blogger, and the visionary founder of #TechItUp, LLC. Her professional journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to advancing learning through innovative technology solutions. With a rich background spanning 17+ years in education, Dr. McDonald has cultivated a sterling reputation for catalyzing positive change. She oversees strategic integration of technology, spearheading initiatives that empower educators and leaders to craft immersive and meaningful learning experiences for students. Throughout her career, Dr. McDonald has been at the forefront of transformative education, leaving an indelible mark as the Director of Digital Learning for Bastrop ISD, an Instructional Technologist at Houston ISD and as a Program Director for Technology Applications, Computer Science, and STEM at Aldine ISD. Her impact extends beyond the confines of the classroom, as she consistently trains and develops thousands of teachers, administrators, and instructional specialists, fostering their proficiency in technology integration, school system optimization, change management, and strategic planning. Dr. McDonald holds a trifecta of academic achievements—a Bachelor's in Chemistry, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction in Instructional Technology, and a Ph.D. in Educational Technology. Her academic prowess is matched only by her passion for ensuring equitable access to 21st-century education. A staunch advocate for social change in education, she actively addresses equity and diversity gaps, working tirelessly to close these divides. As a thought leader and influencer, Dr. McDonald leverages her position to build meaningful relationships with various stakeholders. Her podcast and blog serve as platforms for disseminating insights and fostering dialogue on the transformative power of technology in education. She envisions a future where her influence continues to propel advancements in educational technology, ultimately contributing to the realization of a more inclusive and equitable education landscape. Dr. Jocelyn McDonald is not just an educator; she is a catalyst for positive change, driving the evolution of education towards a brighter and more accessible future.

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