In their introductory chapter to the Handbook of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) for Educators (2008) Koehler and Mishra suggest that teaching with technology should be viewed as a “wicked problem” (Rittel & Weber, 1973) that involves complex, multivariate interdependencies in a context that is always changing.
To quote Koehler & Mishra (2008, p. 11)
“Rittel and Weber show that the biggest mistake that one can make when tackling a wicked problem is to think of it as a “normal” or “tame problem” that can be tackled in conventional ways. Wicked problems always occur in social contexts — in the case of technology integration, that of classrooms. The diversity of teachers, students, and technology coordinators who operate in the social context bring different goals, objectives, and beliefs to the table, and thereby contribute tot he wickedness of this problem. Indeed, it is the social, psychological complexity of these problems — rarely their technical complexity — that overwhelms standard problem-solving approaches.”
This assignment aims to approach my Wicked Problem Project in 21st century education.
Jeffrey Fisher 
This sounds like a truly wicked problem, and a great one to try to solve. Be sure that you are clear about the problem. Is it 1. Teachers not wanting to take the risk to use technology OR 2. Students not having enough engaging learning experiences with technology ? That may seem like the same thing, but your audience will be different depending on the answer, and therefore the solution will be different. One other bit of advice, keep your solution specific and choose 1 (or a few) strategies. I will keep thinking about the acronym… can you shorten it al all… maybe PERC … like PERC up your classroom??
I don’t know anyone who has done a program like that. We have after school technology classes in our district that you can sign up for hour-long sessions to learn how to use Smartboard or Moodle. I think a lot of educators (if there is more of the route you are going for) will appreciate more information directed towards how to effectively use Social Networking. I know I was very hesitant about introducing it into my classroom but after going through this program I see the benefits outweigh the negatives. I think if the teachers are informed and educated about the programs then they will feel more comfortable defending their choices to the parents. I also think you could maybe include a pamphlet/paper/site to explain to parents why you are encouraging the use of social media networks. I think parents just get nervous about safety issues so you could explain privacy settings or things like how we learned you can follow something on Twitter without really having a Twitter account?
Thanks for taking your time to read this and to reply.
I love the idea of the pamphlet is a great idea. I am definitely going to use it somewhere in this project.
I was talking about my friend from school about the constraints of rolling something like this out and he said, “Well, what happens if the parent does not want their kid to have one of those social networking site?” I suppose that I’m going to use something that they will be ok with. I can always use Google Docs as a means of socializing.
LOL I think CREEPO is great j/k. I don’t know of anyone that have taken on this challenge. I do agree with the need of teachers using technology (or if they come up with a better means) to engage students. When they enter many classrooms they automatically shutdown. Sometimes you will have to lead by example, offer others your strategies and hope they join in. Sharing your students’ work or your ideas during a staff meeting will be a good way to do this. Sooner or later reform is going to have to happen, so I believe other will join your efforts.
I will think of another acronym.
Thanks! I think it’s a big issue, but sooner or later people are going to have to jump on board. Thanks for taking your time, Tamyka.