Having spent the last 15 years implementing technology in schools we have learned a thing or two about what makes for a successful training program.
We take a holistic approach to training by looking at the suite of apps you need along with SchoolWise such as VSware / Facility and Office 365 / Google. We weave these into our training so everyone can see the big picture and understand how they all fit together.
To ensure successful training and implementation it is important to have a robust plan that should include the following;
The vision of the end goal
It is important to have everyone’s commitment from the start. Encourage open communication where people can voice any queries or concerns. Explain why you are taking them on this journey, and the difference it will make to their lives when you reach the end goal.
Team
There is no one size fits all when it comes to choosing your team but we have found that in general one of the following strategies work well for schools;
Heads of every department – The starting point for training is planning for the Junior Cycle. The head of each department attends the training sessions. It is their responsibility to take what they learn back to their team and bring them up to speed.
Specific departments – Every member of one or more specific departments attend the training sessions. Again, the starting point for training is planning for the Junior Cycle. These departments receive onsite training and are seen as exemplary within the school. At a certain point on the roadmap, they will begin to bring everyone else on board and act as the support system for the school.
Whole school rollout – The whole school uses the platform from day one. This is the most ambitious rollout, which is why we developed our Dual Paths to Success along with our SchoolWise Roadmap. A small group such as heads of departments receive in-depth training in an area such as planning for the Junior Cycle. Everyone else will engage in the platform on a daily basis but will be set smaller easier to achieve goals, such as centralising resources and improving communication within departments.
Milestones
It is crucial to share your vision of what the end goal will look with everyone. Remember this can be overwhelming. It is essential to instil confidence by showing that when broken down into small realistic goals over an adequate time frame the end vision is very attainable.
When divided up like this the goals become clear and easily achievable
Timeframe
We know that time is always limited, and that there are only so many Croke Park hours to go around. But, in order to get the most out of the training sessions, you need to book them close together, this will reinforce what has been learned and will keep the momentum going.
Another crucial but often overlooked point is to make sure you allow enough time after training sessions so everyone can actually implement what they’ve learned.
We work with each individual school and tailor a training programme to guarantee success. Our Roadmap provides support in setting realistic goals to keep you on track for a full rollout. We are with you every step of the way!
