Developing ICT Leadership Skills for Teachers of the Future

Abstract

There is a strong demand in schools for capable leaders, in particular in thearea of the successful integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) into teaching and learning. This need is addressed by an innovative course IT in Primary Schools that prepares our undergraduate students to take on ICT leadership roles in schools. The course is based on a problem based learning approach that utilises the cognitive apprenticeship model. This approach to learning demands that students develop a rich understanding of the complexities of leadership and decision-making about ICT in schools, and the human issues of introducing ICT into a school. Students work in teams, acting as the ICT Committee in a fictional primary school, and solve four large problems over the year. Students develop content knowledge and generic skills, such as information literacy, communication and leadership skills. This approach to learning leads to successful outcomes for students and very satisfying teaching experiences for staff.