Journal # 5
Technology Incentives
Motivating Teachers to attend professional development training, by Virginia Richard
Learning & Leading with Technology, September/October 2007

In an effort to motivate professional development training, teachers in Polk County, Florida, attend technology coaching programs and receive incentives for passing proficiency tests. On completion of the program, the technology is immediately placed in the classroom. Some students attend the training and aid teachers and other students with the new technology. Peer mentors are used to promote the use of new technological tools to more reluctant teachers. It is the responsibility of the administrators to ensure that teachers receive an adequate professional development plan.

What are the benefits of including students and teachers in new technology programs?

Students and teachers who attend new technology programs are able to assist each another and other students in the implementation and use of new programs/technology. The new technology is likely to be more successful and receive approval from the students if they are involved from an early stage. Students are more eager to use new technology and can encourage and coach the teacher through the transition. Some students will automatically take the lead when new technology is introduced in the classroom.

How do the incentives offered to teachers benefit the students?

The teachers are offered incentives for completing proficiency tests with an 80% or higher pass rate. The teacher is awarded a selection of inventory, i.e. 1 GB flash drive, digital video editing software, LCD projectors. Students may use the software and technology when presenting projects. The new technology will encourage familiarization and students can advance and display their expertise when presenting projects to their peers.