Close Close

MU’S SUPERINTENDENTS’ ACADEMY EXPLORE USING TABLETS

Over sixty District Superintendents and Administrators explored ways to effectively use tablet technology to promote student achievement at the second session of the Monmouth University Superintendents’ Academy. The workshop was held at the Multipurpose Activity Center (MAC).  Presenters were Gregory Farley, supervisor of Educational Technology, Hazlet Township Public Schools; Christine Grabowski, 3rd grade teacher, Middle Road School, Hazlet; and Michael Viturello, Visual and Performing Arts Academy-lead principal, Long Branch Middle School.  Farley and Grabowski are also adjunct professors for the Educational Leadership, School Counseling, and Special Education Department at Monmouth University.

Presenters demonstrated applications (APPs) on the devices, with participants posing questions throughout the presentation. Ocean Township Superintendent, John Lysko said that the session provided valuable information about the integration of tablet technology into instruction. “The presentations offered innovative ways to promote student achievement with this cutting edge technology,” said Lysko.

Matt Howell, principal, Maple Place School Middle School, Oceanport shared that the training was meaningful. “The APPs shared can be used in any school district to enhance instructional practices,” said Howell. “The multiple connections to best practices will support student success across the discipline.”

Aside from the many APPS that were presented, there were several other key points regarding the use of technology.  The first was that districts should ensure that teachers be provided with sufficient professional development to use the APP or any other technological innovation.  Next, they underscored the importance of making effective use of technology by integrating it into the user’s daily routine.  Finally, administrators should keep the human element in mind. “In other words don’t let your technological prowess over power your face to face contact with your staff,” said Dr. Harvey R. Allen, Monmouth University assistant professor.

The Academy was formed in 2009 to provide a forum for dialogue and an exchange of ideas and experiences that provides opportunities of professional learning for superintendents and central office personnel. There are currently forty-one membership districts who can send up to three district administrators to each of the four sessions.

The topics for the remaining sessions for the 2012-2013 membership year are: Technology Policies and Practices, March 13, 2013; and Promoting Excellence and Equity for Diverse Learners, May 15, 2013. Both sessions will be held at Monmouth University’s MAC.  For more information, please call the Monmouth University’s School of Education Dean’s Office at 732-571-7518 or email soesuperintendentsacademy@monmouth.edu.

# # #

Media contact: Petra Ludwig at 732-263-5507