Do you ever feel befuddled by technology, lost and barely afloat in a sea of technology jargon? You’re not alone. I remember the first time I sat in front of a computer and wondered, “Why do I have to?” Later, my dad bought me an Apple //e computer. My math teacher mother remarked, “He’s terrible in math; he’s not going to be a programmer.”
Opening Doors
In spite of that, the technology helped me do things I had once found impossible. It opened doors that had already shut at 13 years of age. It enabled me to master million-dollar spreadsheets in a single-bound. I relied on it to track inventory and projects with databases. It created possibilities for my life where there had been none. In fact, at 13, I had conversations with adults via computer bulletin board services (BBSs). These BBSs served as islands of insight. They cultivated in me an ardent desire. That desire? To wrestle with learning and share the benefit with others.
My Past Roles
My name is Miguel Guhlin (@mguhlin@qoto.org). Like some of you, I’ve struggled to blend technology into teaching, learning, and leading. I’ve served in various roles. Those roles included:
- Bilingual educator,
- Campus instructional specialist,
- District instructional technologist, and
- Director of technology
In each, I have sought to overcome the technical to achieve the amazing. I’ve chronicled my journey in published articles, blog entries, and audio recordings (podcasts). In fact, I’ve often imagined that I’m a storyteller. My task has been to gather and share tales that entertain and educate my listeners and readers.
Assisting Others to Learn More
Being able to assist others in learning to use technology motivates me. That’s why I’m pleased to join the staff of TCEA. TCEA includes a team of committed individuals. All have modeled the use of technology for a long time. As a director of professional development, I’m here to help you learn and use technology.
An Invitation
My walk alongside TCEA began in my late 20s as an educator presenting at a state conference. It was at TCEA’s conference that I built relationships and friends that have endured a lifetime. If you aren’t a member of TCEA yet, then I definitely encourage to join.
Let’s walk together. Let’s create amazing learning opportunities for each other, and our students. You can reach me at mguhlin@tcea.org. And, you can find me on Mastodon @mguhlin@qoto.org.
@mguhlin@qoto.org @mguhlin@mastodon.educationSwing wide open the door to possibility!
