So while providing technology training programs worthy of teachers' time is important, inducing all teachers to enhance their job skills may ultimately require stronger incentives than self-motivation. Financial incentives are a time-tested method of encouraging teachers to devote their time to professional development. A less obvious way that school districts can support professional development activities financially is by providing the time that teachers need to engage in them. Strategies such as paid release time for planning, independent practice without fear of embarrassment, and collaboration are fruitful avenues for encouraging professional development in technology. Incentives that require financial support are certainly expensive.
Job security can be as powerful an incentive as money.
A wide array of less traditional incentives also can be used to support specific learning goals identified in a school district's technology plan. Similar incentives can be developed to support a wide range of specific goals. Offering incentives is an important aspect of a technology professional development program. Incentives help ensure that teachers who face escalating demands on their limited time receive the training they need to prepare their students for the technological workplace of the future. Barriers to new technology.