Comment Coaches - invest in experts first, tech later (Score 1) 231
Innovation and exploration rarely happens without coaches. Coaching in school-based tech / lab / makerspaces - especially school libraries - is a path that progressive education programs are beginning to follow. Volunteers aren't enough.
First, make a few small bets with some experts who are educators and technologists, create a series of project-based workshops - you may find them with a regional arts integration / residency roster.
Once you've had some great sessions, invest in partnerships with a number of providers - either enrichment / OST or in-school - who have the capacity to bring skilled coaches.
These activities and workshops will help determine what tech / tools you should bring into the library space.
If you're in the mid-atlantic region, look up http://www.kidsmakethingsbette... - we serve public and school libraries.
maker ed is your way to go - http://www.makered.org/
First, make a few small bets with some experts who are educators and technologists, create a series of project-based workshops - you may find them with a regional arts integration / residency roster.
Once you've had some great sessions, invest in partnerships with a number of providers - either enrichment / OST or in-school - who have the capacity to bring skilled coaches.
These activities and workshops will help determine what tech / tools you should bring into the library space.
If you're in the mid-atlantic region, look up http://www.kidsmakethingsbette... - we serve public and school libraries.
maker ed is your way to go - http://www.makered.org/
