Barriers for implementing 21st Century teaching and learning Tools

     With all the benefits of the continued use and promotion of 21st century teaching and learning tools, there still seems to be a lot of resistance on the part of educators and professionals for utilizing these tools on a regular basis, and in an effective manner.  As a teacher, I've always found the biggest issue standing in my way is that of time.  If I had the time to sit down for a few hours to test out and play with new apps, software, sites, or programs, I'd have very little difficulty in looking to apply these into my regular teaching practice.  However, with so many things that need to be done, both in and out of the classroom, along with the demands of everyday life and personal obligations, that time is not always so free and easy to obtain.  I've noted that many of my colleagues are often in the same situation.

     There are many other factors that can get in the way of implementing 21st century teaching and learning tools into classroom use.  Another large barrier is that of adequate resources.  Often, schools and educational institutions lack in the resources available for teachers to access 21st century tools.  A lack of technology or insufficient access to available technology, continuous time constraints, and inadequate technical support often get in the way of teachers attempting to use technology in the classroom.  I've found in my own board, this is a very real issue, especially among elementary schools in the district.

     Aside from a lack of resources, I've noticed others barriers that included an inadequate knowledge and skill set, as well as effective assessment strategies can be significant barriers to utilizing 21st century learning tools.  Many teachers lack the knowledge necessary to use specific types of technology, or are very hesitant to try new technologies they are unfamiliar with.  This is often enough for teachers to shy away from these tools, and they often lead to certain attitudes and beliefs forming about the full effectiveness of these tools in the classroom.  Furthermore, knowledge of effective assessment in program planning when using 21st century learning tools is very limited among many educators.  Many teachers simply do not know how to use these tools to assess their students, and they often view these tools as "a way to keep kids busy." (Ertmer, Addison, Lane, Ross, and Woods, 1999)

     For 21st century teaching and learning tools to be utilized effectively within the classroom, it is up to teacher leaders, school administration, and school boards to work together to educate educators on the pedagogy and assessment applications when utilizing these tools.  If boards and administration can provide their teachers with resources and release time necessary to work with these tools, then teacher leaders can work with educators on effectively using these tools in and out of the classroom and thus benefiting the educational development of all our students.