Supporting Coaches: Relationships Make Deeper Conversations Possible
Written by: Nicole Nelson
As educators, our profession is the core of who we are and how we identify ourselves. For many years, my own identity was centered around nurturing the students in my classroom. However, in recent years, it has expanded to encompass supporting teachers in their efforts to enhance student learning as I embraced this new role of technology integration. While some may believe that success in this role is solely dependent on being technologically adept, my own experience has shown otherwise. Success as a technology integration specialist is not merely about possessing knowledge of tools, software, and the latest trends. Instead, it is fundamentally grounded in the relationships we establish with the educators we serve. When we as technology coaches work with teachers about how they might make changes to their practice we need to tread carefully because it takes trust and a good relationship for them to accept the changes we are asking them to consider making, essentially about themselves. The quote that drives me in my role is one we often hear.
“Success as a technology integration specialist is not merely about possessing knowledge of tools, software, and the latest trends. Instead, it is fundamentally grounded in the relationships we establish with the educators we serve.”
“People may forget what you did, or what you said, but will never forget how you made them feel.”
Key Considerations for Building Trusting Relationships:
1. Be Present:
Take the initiative to stop in just to say “Hi!” One of the first things I did was to get to know teachers on a personal level, joining them during lunch and breaks. Make a conscious effort to remember details, as they provide valuable insights into each teacher’s unique perspective. By demonstrating genuine care and interest in their well-being, you lay the foundation for building strong, trust-based relationships that will ultimately enhance collaboration and support in technology integration efforts.
2. Be Supportive:
Find THEIR classroom pain points. Building relationships allows you to understand the specific needs and challenges of each teacher. By knowing their individual struggles, you can provide tailored support and resources. This will help you drive conversations with them at a later date. If remembering these details does not come naturally to you, keep a log either digitally or in a notebook.
“Get closer than ever to your customers. So close that you tell them what they need well before they realize it themselves” – Steve Jobs
Our customers are the teachers we serve. The better we know their pain points the better we are able to support them.
3. Be Encouraging:
Start small! Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of educators in their technology integration journey. Whether it’s a small win or a major milestone, recognizing their efforts reinforces their confidence and motivates them to continue evolving. Follow up with an email or a note to support them with their pain points. Let them know you are thinking of them and their needs.
4. Be Consistent:
Consistent communication is key to relationship-building. Whether it’s through face-to-face meetings, emails, or virtual check-ins, make an effort to stay connected with educators. Be responsive to their inquiries and provide timely support. Consider what you are sharing and the delivery method, an email versus a video, or what needs a personal demonstration. Follow up conversations with an email summary of the conversation and include resources.
“Our customers are the teachers we serve. The better we know their pain points the better we are able to support them.”
Imagine you’ve built strong relationships with teachers, but when it comes to discussing technology integration or implementing changes in lessons, you encounter avoidance. It’s not that people fear change per se; rather, they fear the potential pain it might bring. Teachers are wary of changes that could result in additional workload or stress. As technology coaches, our task is to demonstrate that the strategies we propose will enhance teaching practices and have a positive impact, alleviating concerns about added burden.
Ideas for Pushing into Reluctant Classrooms:
1. Know your stuff, and practice what you preach! Before sharing a new tool or program, ensure you’re well-versed in its features and functionality. Stay updated on the latest programs and updates to remain relevant. When introducing a new technology, provide concrete examples of how it can benefit students in the classroom.
2. Go in with an end goal in mind. Prepare something valuable to share during your visit, even if you initially encounter avoidance. Having a focused agenda helps to make your interactions purposeful and productive.
3. Be genuinely enthusiastic about the tips and strategies you’re sharing. You’re not just a coach; you’re a cheerleader and advocate for change! Let your passion for innovation and improvement shine through in your interactions with teachers, inspiring them to embrace new ideas and practices.
4. Identify “go-to teachers” who are receptive to trying out new technologies. Collaborate with them to pilot new tools and strategies in their classrooms. Their positive experiences can serve as powerful testimonials to encourage other educators to embrace change.
Remember, technology coaching is not just about the tools; it’s about the people using them. Take the time to invest in building relationships, and you’ll see the positive impact it has on technology integration in your school.
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