How is an Educational Technology Coordinator Different from an Instructional Technology Specialist?
When you need help with technology at school, it’s helpful to know who to ask. Let’s explore the differences between a technology coordinator and an instructional technology specialist.
In short, a school technology coordinator handles all the behind the scenes of technology at the school. The coordinator ensures that the devices are set up for students & staff and running well. An instructional technology specialist works with teachers to integrate technology to improve classroom engagement and achievement.
Both positions play a significant role in ensuring technology is used effectively in the classroom. One ensures it’s working, and the other supports the educational use of it in the school. They make an excellent team!
Title Variations
There are many terms for technology specialists at schools. You may know your tech specialist by names like…
Instructional Technology Specialist
Technology Integrator
Instructional Technology Coach
Technology Coach
EdTech Coach
Technology Coordinator
School IT Director
Technology Director
Technology Administrator
Director of Technology
Responsibilities
Technology Coordinator
They are responsible for setting up and managing school devices, ensuring a secure internet network, and troubleshooting and fixing school technology for students and teachers. Their role is critical to ensure the school’s technological infrastructure works smoothly. Without this position, students and teachers may experience difficulties that could disrupt learning. They are constantly troubleshooting and making sure the technology infrastructure is working right.
Instructional Technology Specialist
Their main priority is to help increase student engagement and achievement using tech tools in your classroom. Technology Integrators work directly with the teacher to use their available technology to enhance student learning. They help teachers to integrate technology into their lesson plans, develop technology-based assignments, and provide professional development to help stay up-to-date with the latest edtech tools. They provide and create tech resources and helpful tech guides for teachers, students, and parents. Last but not least, they support teachers using technology in their classrooms.
Who Do I Ask?
Knowing who to go to with your technology questions can sometimes be confusing. Here are some questions a teacher might have and who they should ask.
Ask a Technology Coordinator:
“My computer won’t turn on. Can you help?”
“How do I download software?”
“How do I add a printer to my computer?”
“Where can I get an HDMI adapter?”
“I can’t get connected to the internet. Can you help?”
“Should I allow this update on my device?”
Ask an Instructional Technology Specialist:
“How do I create a digital exit ticket?”
“What are the best edtech websites for my chemistry class?”
“I would like to do a mystery skype. Can you help?”
“What tech tools can I use to increase student engagement?”
“I have a student who is struggling with math. Do you know of any resources or strategies I can try?”
“I would like to take my students on a virtual field trip. Can you help me find one that matches our lesson?”
If your technology is not working correctly, contact the coordinator. If you want to learn how to use edtech tools in your classroom or how to engage your students with technology, contact your instructional tech specialist.
The Technology Coordinator and Instructional Technology Specialist make the perfect school tech team to support teachers in integrating technology in the classroom.
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