Key Ideas of the Long-Range Plan for Technology

While studying the Long-Range Plan for Technology 2006-2020, I became aware of how important it is to refine and align curriculum standards to meet the needs of the
21st Century workplace and higher education by providing quality instructional materials aligned with content standards.

According to the plan, on-going professional development for educators including personalized instruction, how to use data effectively, alignment of assessment instruments, and equitable access to technology tools for students and teachers are a must.

Because students of today are technology –savvy and need access to technological tools and training, teaching content needs to be relevant.Students need to be taught basic skills of communication and learning should be diversified to meet the needs of all students through a variety of resources.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that research shows that experienced teachers once thought as resistance to technology represent 35% of those actively involved with technology in the classroom. Teachers also report that student engagement, achievement, as well as collaboration and teamwork as being the primary impact of technology.

As with any learning, the “one size fits all” approach does not meet educational needs and goals. The No Child Left Behind legislature requires students to become technology literate by the end of eighth grade, so teachers find that curriculum alignment, more planning time, and new teaching methods and strategies are all challenges.

I did not realize that distance education/online learning is key to providing students with the courses and expanded education opportunities. I usually equate online/distance education as a need of high school/college students.

As an administrator, it is important that I would cultivate a shared vision with my stakeholders and open the pathway to change. As a technology leader, I should lead and support others in the area of technology.

As a result of reading the Long Range Plan, I understand how important ongoing staff development and sufficient training time is. Therefore, this Plan guides me to hone my own technological skills and take more of a leadership role, helping others to acquire the training they need and to prepare their students for life in the 21st century