Integrating Technology into Teacher Preparation and Practice: A Two-way Mentoring Model

Abstract

This article reports on a pilot case study exploring the opportunity for authentic professional development in the use of technology. Self-selected pre-service and in- service teachers were paired so as to reinforce and enhance, firstly, their computer skill development and, secondly, their ability to integrate these same skills into classroom teaching practices. It was proposed that both groups of participants would derive benefit from these pairings. Results overwhelming support this and suggest (a) a model for better preparing teacher candidates to be able to integrate computer skills into classroom programming and (b) a new, perhaps more efficient, method of professional development for busy, dedicated classroom teachers.