This course provided many new perspectives that I have not been aware of in my 18 years as a teacher. Thinking as a decision maker for technology needs in a district is overwhelming, but it certainly gave me some understanding and appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that goes on to provide teachers and students with the capabilities we have.
Developing and maintaining a plan for technology in a district of our size takes much outlining for the many pieces that must work together like clockwork. In my technology plan, I worked up many components: Software and Information Maintenance and Security, Network Infrastructure Plan, Staff Development, Hardware Maintenance, Communication, and Technology Procurement and Disposal. Each part listed requires careful thought before implementation and there must be a list of defined responsibilities for each. Technology staff and administrators need to be aware of budgeting and auditing for the purchase of technology needs, have a plan in place that incorporates check and balances systems, as well as communicating needs to IT staff, teachers and students on how to use and maintain the new technology.
This 4 year plan starts with a careful look at the existing technology structures and needs using a organizational readiness assessment. Using this chart, a sample assessment was given to a building in the district regarding implemented math programs used for intervention purposes. The ISTE standards made up the structure of this assessment. With all that must be organized when dealing with new technology implementation, this assessment helps a district to determine if a school is really ready for a technology roll out.
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