We are not going as far as technophobia, but we should admit that most of us have been afraid of technology at work up to certain extend. What can we do to deal with this fright successfully? How can we feel at ease, or at least, comfortable with it?
Remember when Office burst out in the market? And we were told that overhead projectors would be replaced by a desk computer so we could use Power Point presentations? For some, it meant a new challenge; for others, a nightmare. I was quite fortunate to be picked in the first group of teachers that got some training from experts. Unfortunately, we did not make the most of it since the expert used terminology we were not familiar with and explained things really fast. How frustrating! I was sure there had to be another way, so I tried a course for grandparents at my children’s school. Yes, grandparents. What a difference! The teacher was very patient and their assistants too. And our big smiles when doing something well were genuine…and so was the teacher’s satisfaction. I realized the best courses and/or trainers are not the ones that have a lot of degrees, but the ones that are capable of putting themselves in their students’ shoes and are empathetic.
Another experience was in a congress in Argentina some years ago. There was a lecture about technology, and it was fully booked. The presenter talked about the advent of the cloud. I am convinced 90% of the audience could not grasp what he meant. Now I know clouds are used to storage information, like a USB memory. How simple it was! On another occasion, I was very interested in learning about social media. The presenter showed us all her life in Facebook and LinkedIn and also talked about… yes, you are right, clouds one more time!!! There was I, frustrated again! Was it useful? Not at all, but since then, I keep that experience in mind as a clear example of what NOT to do when giving a workshop. I dislike people that use a lot of technical jargon with a novice audience. I do feel pleased when a presenter asks about the audience’s experiences with technology and gets to know how familiar they are with the topic and tailors their presentation to the current needs of that particular audience. These are the champions that will make us love technology and not to be afraid of it.
Below, some suggestions to reduce our level of anxiety regarding technology at work:
1. ASK A COLLEAGUE TO HELP YOU: There is always someone at hand who has more experience with technology, or it seems easy for them to use some programs or devices. In exchange, perhaps you can offer your assistance in a task you know this person is struggling with. Sometimes, it shows up in a conversation during a break, while socializing. It won’t hurt to give it a try.
2. READ ABOUT TECHNOLOGY. My advice: follow some people that are in the field and, most importantly, who YOU understand. Social media is very useful; you can use either Facebook or LinkedIn.
3. TRY AN ONLINE COURSE. The range of topics and prices of these lessons is quite diverse. Having this kind of experience will give you more confidence to deal with technology at work.
4. DON’T BE TOO HARSH ON YOURSELF. Some devices are friendlier than others. Take one step at a time. First learn one or two tasks, practice them and include them in your daily classes. Then, try another and so on. Sooner than later, you will have incorporated a considerable number of software functions successfully.
What about you?
Are you struggling with technology at work?
Have you ever found it frustrating to deal with it daily?
Let us know what you think!
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes, 12 seconds
Do you feel overwhelmed because of the technological demands at work?
You are not alone! This post reflects on the topic. Let us know what you think and, most importantly, share your experience(s) with us!
I would have to say, I would be afraid that the language center or any other place where we have to teach doesn't have the technology. Another thing to consider are the conditions needed for the technologies to work. An example, right now, we are in 9th Generation Core processors, we are moving to 5G. Are the platforms, software compatible with the new technologies, devices, etc.(Bluetooth mouse doesn't communicate with Windows 10) It's a problem I have right now BTW.
I love the idea of helping each other with what we are good at. Let’s not be afraid of asking for assistance.
Excellent post. To be honest learning something new like technology could be overwhelming at times. It changes so fast that we need constant training. I learnt the hard way (the same as you) with show offs at seminars and with you tube tutoring videos; pausing and playing for hours. I guess we need to stay on top of the game when it comes to the use of technology since it is an indispensable tool. Of course there is no technology that will replace a good teacher but teachers could be replaced by tecky teachers.
I have taken 2 "grandparents courses" before… they were great! I think it is time for a new one to update the IT technician inside of me… 🙂
You are right, Luis. Sometimes the problem is that our devices are not compatible with the ones our institution uses. It is always a good idea to try them out before our class, and to have a Plan B, just in case. Thank you for following us! Your comments are very valuable! ZC
If we do, we may get help from the most unexpected people…and in turn, strengthen our bonds with our colleagues, dear Sheyla. Regards.ZC
Glad to know that you fully support our points. It is true that some teachers are really tecky, and, indeed, it is a valuable skill; but other traits are also important in class_among them, the H(uman) factor. Thank you for sharing your experience and ideas! Best. ZC
So I am not alone! Those courses have proven to be really effective! Good luck in the update!!! Regards.ZC
Since technology was introduced in the Industrial Revolution, there were also people who felt no longer at ease with it, not just because jobs were taken but also because it meant a change. Imagine the luddites at the time tearing down and burning machines in London!
It is undeniable that technology has changed our lives and we must feel proud of being part of the generation who has witnessed this transformation. Unlearning what we were used to, to learn new things and new skills, has made us be more flexible, adaptable and think outside the box.
I have always felt fascinated by technology and, as a teacher, I reckon it has a great impact on the way I teach, I find my lessons more productive and interactive, besides there are plenty of tools we can use to support our students’ learning. I think that, what we really must be afraid of, is not technology, but the lack of it.
Thanks Zarela for your advice, it has been really useful!
Thanks to you, Cecilia! You summarized the historical facts and also made your point: let's embrace technology at work!It is a pleasure to find colleagues that are well informed and supportive. Regards.ZC
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