How can you determine if the technology in your district is really working for teachers? We think that anonymous teacher surveys can get you the answers you’re looking for.

If you require teachers to attach their names to surveys, potential problems can arise. Teachers will most likely not want to criticize their district too harshly, which can cause misrepresentations in the results. Anonymity is key.  We have surveyed around 5000 teachers and the results may surprise you.

One of our key findings was that superintendents and board members usually think that the district’s technology plan works better than it actually does. This occurs because these individuals are not in the classroom using the technology with students every day.  Teachers on the other hand, may face technical difficulties often but are not as likely to speak up without an outlet to voice their concerns without any potential repercussions.

In one specific circumstance we found that a superintendent was satisfied with the use of Apple technology throughout the school, however, the results from the surveys showed the exact opposite. Teachers of this district unanimously agreed that they preferred Google technology, and that the iPads and Macbooks were complicated to use.

 

Surveys will help teachers, board members, principals, and superintendents find common ground. So if there is a disconnect like in the scenario above, steps can be taken towards a solution. If your school district wants to make the most out of technology, we want to emphasize how important it is for your teachers to feel comfortable using it.  

We recommend that you use surveys as frequently as possible. While you may believe everything is running smoothly and teachers are satisfied with your technology initiative, the surveys will give you a straightforward answer. You can later use the data you collect to help your district improve and use technology in the best way possible for parents, teachers, and students alike.