Journal Review: Professional Development and the Master Technology Teacher: the Evolution of One Partnership

Wright, V. H. (2010). Professional Development and the Master Technology Teacher: The Evolution of One Partnership. Education, 131(1), 139-146.

In this journal article, Dr. Wright chronicles the development and the implementation of the professional development of in-service and pre-service teachers in the use of technology. The program described is the Master Technology Teacher (MTT) through the University of Alabama.

The program consists of the following components;

1. A small group of teachers meet periodically to learn new tools and pedagogical methods.
2. This group of teachers then implements the new tools and methods in their classrooms. This can include observations by those who are facilitating the MTT program.
3. The teachers then reflect and present their implementation/reflection to the others in the MTT program. 
4. The teachers involved in the MTT program become technology leaders and innovators in their departments/buildings/districts and mentor other teachers in the use of technology to enhance their craft.  

Dr. Wright also details five additional characteristics of technology professional development:

1. For teachers, learning basic skills and developing confidence in using technology is the first step.
2. Once one teacher becomes comfortable in using technology, they become technology leaders and the "go to" person for questions and ideas regarding technology integration.
3. New technology in teaching and learning is only integrated when professional development (such as the MTT program) and ongoing collaboration with others is continuous.
4. Teachers need time to learn new technologies, but also to "make and take" or time to work the new technologies into their lessons
5. Professional development should also include the ethical issues related to using technology in the classroom. 

The MTT program included teachers of all content areas as well as initial comfort level with technology.