Journal 8

Leveraging the Business Teacher
By Dr. Melissa Bledsoe

In this article the author describes two problems. First, elementary teachers have trouble keeping up with the latest technology. Second, middle and high school business teachers must stay current on technology. A partnership between both of these groups can benefit the entire district and create strong relationships between teachers.
Such collaboration is not without its barriers. According to Bledsoe, overcoming the logistical problems is of primary concern. There is also the issue of timing. Finding a common time for meetings and workshops can be difficult. Making the effort to surmount these obstacles will create a number of benefits for teacher and student.
Bledsoe suggests some examples of collaborative ideas which are not difficult to implement. Her suggestions include a Teacher Exchange Program where teachers will switch classrooms for a day. This plan could be part of a mentoring program where business and elementary teachers are paired together at the start of the year. In addition, other projects such as technology newsletters, field trips, and workshops on software and troubleshooting techniques. For elementary teachers such a partnership can be a perfect solution to a growing problem.

Question: Are business teachers likely to be open to such collaboration?

Some would be open to the idea and eager to help. Others would resist, feeling that the partnership is rather one sided. Business teachers might resent having their time taken up in a partnership where they derive very little benefit.

Question: What might be an alternative solution to helping elementary school teachers with technology issues?

The district could hire a single IT person or team to conduct workshops and training sessions. This person could be available via e-mail or phone for troubleshooting problems. They could also publish a newsletter like the one described above full of information on new technology.