The Traveling Teacher Blog! School Technology Research 101: Tools and Tips for Educators
Today, the need to continuously learn and adapt is paramount, especially in the realm of educational technology. Over the years, I’ve developed a structured learning and research process that helps me navigate this ever-evolving landscape. Here’s a glimpse into my approach, the tools I use, and some tips for those looking to enhance their skills.
Starting Point: Beyond Google
While Google is often my go-to search engine, I don’t always start there. I find that a more targeted approach leads to better results. Here are a few of my initial steps:
- Before diving into research, I clarify what I need to learn. Whether it’s a new educational tool or a specific pedagogical strategy, having a clear goal focuses my search.
- Depending on the topic, I often turn to specific platforms. For instance, the Pew Research Center, the Wallace Foundation, and the Education Week magazine provide valuable insights into the latest trends in education technology, while the University of Richmond Boatwright Memorial Library website is great for accessing books and academic papers.
Tools for Research and Learning
I leverage various tools to streamline my research process:
- Bookmarking Tools: I use Evernote to save articles, videos, and resources. This platform allows me to tag and categorize content for easy retrieval later.
- Note-Taking Apps: Milanote and Notion are invaluable for organizing my notes. I create databases for different topics, which helps me track my learning progress and maintain a structured overview.
Sharing Knowledge
Sharing insights is just as crucial as acquiring them. Here’s how I do it:
- I speak to people! Sharing project ideas with other students and professors helps me synthesize my ideas. My course provides space for collaboration as do campus services such as the Writing Center and the Speech Center.
- Collaborative Tools: I use Google Drive to share resources with colleagues, professors and fellow students. Creating shared folders for specific projects fosters collaboration and ensures everyone has access to valuable materials.
Tips for Learning New Technologies
For those venturing into the world of educational technology, here are some practical tips:
- Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve before starting your research. This will guide your process and keep you focused.
- Stay Updated: Follow thought leaders at your university and online. They often share valuable insights and resources that can enhance your learning.
- Join Professional Learning Networks: Engage with communities of educators who share your interests. Platforms like Linkedin can connect you with others passionate about educational technology.
- Practice and Experiment: Don’t just read about new tools – try them out! Experimentation is key to understanding how technology can enhance your teaching practice.
- Reflect and Iterate: After learning something new, take time to reflect on how it fits into your teaching. Adjust your approach as necessary, and don’t hesitate to revisit resources.
My Top 5 Educational Technology Research Resources
1.Pews Educational Research Center Website
2. Education Week Magazine
3. The Wallace Foundation
https://wallacefoundation.org/
4. National Center for Education Statistics
5. Boatwright Memorial Library Website
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