Technology for you and me...

This post was originally published on November 8, 2008.

I never realized how vital knowing how to use technology really was until I attended today's training. I teach a course called Electronic Magazine at a magnet school. My co-teacher and I went to a training paid for by the district to learn about Adobe Acrobat 9, which is part of the newest Adobe CS4 Master Collection. Since day one, we have struggled to understand what the course is supposed to be, how all the elements and skills can fit in the time allotted and why freshmen are required to take the course. It's getting better; it started with nothing but two willing teachers with backgrounds in journalism and no experience building a curriculum.

As we went through the first two semesters, we cut out everything we hated and built on everything we loved. The course is simple--put kids in a group and let them create a magazine. Had I realized how much work it would be, I probably would have dropped a resume off at HEB as well.

The students needed to learn design, good journalism skills, and a bit of law. The principal wanted their work online, and with that, came lots of liabilities.

In theory, the class beats any other. Especially if students are artistic and have a side that likes to see where their ideas take them. Parents always ask if they can register for the class and with a smile, I always reply the same: You and me both. It is an amazing opportunity for these students, even if they are already the ones that get the best of the best. I am not sure though that the execution always mirrors the theoretical. But then I just tell myself, "It's a new course and the kinks will work themselves out."

I realized, though, that they might not. I am teaching a course that constantly evolves. Even the websites that were cool three years ago are so outdated now. I am constantly trying to keep afloat with all the technological intelligence I am responsible for imparting to my students.

I learned that if students don't know shortcuts to programs, they most likely won't get the job. Employers actually look at the use of shortcuts as a measure of an applicant's productivity. I am only 26 years old and I think that's scary! I learned if they don't know how to use not only Photoshop, but Acrobat, InDesign, and Flash, their prospects of getting a job dwindle. Every company has a media outlet.

I hope I am up to the task of making sure these kids are prepared to deal with this type of competition; I am struggling to keep up myself...