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Technology & Infrastructure

Video is a powerful instructional tool, but you need the right technology to maximize its potential.
Don’t be overwhelmed: You can implement video in the classroom with just a smartphone or tablet.

Before diving into your tech options, it’s important to lay the right groundwork

Visit our resources for Building Trust within your community and establishing a Privacy and Consent process before starting.
This way, you’ll ensure that your goals and strategic priorities for video observation align with whatever technology you choose.

Remember: The quality of instruction matters more than the quality of video, so don’t let tech considerations hold you back.

IMPORTANT TECHNOLOGY & INFRASTRUCTURE CONSIDERATIONS

Create an internal technical support structure for the video observation process.

Research your options for camera kits and accessories.

Determine how you want to share video and feedback.

Decide how you are going to inform and train participants on the use of the technology.

RESOURCES

 

Software and Online Platforms for Feedback

4 reasons to consider virtual coaching for your school district

man working on laptopAs technologies advance, school districts are finding new and creative ways to facilitate development and growth in their teachers. As methods like coaching are gaining traction in education, virtual and online platforms are also increasingly being embraced for their agility and efficiency in the delivery of coaching. In this article, experts from TNTP weigh in on the benefits of virtual coaching.

... Read more about 4 reasons to consider virtual coaching for your school district

How to Talk to Technology Vendors

Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
Tips and strategies to ensure that your video technology roll-out is successful, developed from advice given by Matthew Burton, former Chief Information Officer of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and specialist in technology management in the public sector.

Viewing Platform Vendor List

Viewing Platform Vendor List Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
A list of software vendors that can be used for providing feedback and reflection with the aid of video, which outlines observation uses, technology features, and cost.*
*Please note that this does not constitute an endorsement of any products or services.

Hardware

Audio Design: Microphones for Classroom

Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
A description of different types of microphones and their best uses.*
*Please note that this does not constitute an endorsement of any products or services.

Choose the Right Camera Guide

Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
A step-by-step visual guide for educators on how to choose the right video camera for their educational context, outlining important considerations such as price, mobility, sharing, ease of use, and more.*
*Please note that this does not constitute an endorsement of any products or services.

How to Talk to Technology Vendors

Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
Tips and strategies to ensure that your video technology roll-out is successful, developed from advice given by Matthew Burton, former Chief Information Officer of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and specialist in technology management in the public sector.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure Checklist for Launch

Infrastructure Checklist for Launch Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
This checklist is designed to help you assess whether your infrastructure is ready to support video observations by outlining critical benchmarks and possible considerations for effective and efficient implementation.

Sample Team Support Structure

Best Foot Forward Toolkit, Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University
A graphic representation of a video coaching program support structure, which maps out the possible roles and responsibilities associated with each level of the program.