Vision
Technology is revolutionizing the world in which we live. In order for children to become globally competitive, technology has to become a natural part of their daily experiences. As educators, we cannot view technology anymore as an accessory in the classroom. In order to afford our students the best and most challenging learning experience possible, technology has to be viewed from the perspective that it is foundational in teaching all content.
Schools are a microcosm of the larger world. Just as technology has become more prevalent in our world, so has it in the schools. Technical devices come in all sizes, shapes and capacities. Nonetheless, simply having access to technical devices is not going to give students a competitive advantage. Students must have a thorough understanding of the variety of ways technology can be used. According to Creighton, students should be able to make real world connections around the use of technology and use it in similar scenarios as adults (Creighton 2003). In order for our schools to become competitive communities of 21st learners, all stakeholders must work together to ensure that the technology vision is accomplished.
· As the instructional leader, the administrator must stay abreast of current technology, and seek and support opportunities that encourage technology to be used beyond skill and drill practice. The administrator must make accommodations/allowances for professional development opportunities that have a technology focus that teaches teachers how to plan and develop lessons that allow students to experience the higher levels of LoTi and support collaborative learning experiences. In addition, the administrator must work hard to integrate technology use into the culture of the school by leading technology discussions in which the voice and opinions of all staff members are heard and respected (ISTE Brief 2007).
· The teachers’ role is to support the technology vision of the administrator by implementing the strategies provided in professional development. These strategies provide opportunities for students to have higher-ordered thinking experiences while using technology in the classroom. It is imperative that teachers understand the importance of moving beyond technology access for simple skill and drill practice. Teachers must ensure that all students have equitable access to technology in a manner that encourages and supports the high levels of LoTi (including SPED and ESL students). Technology can also be used to assist teachers in providing differentiated learning experiences for all students. (Boser 2013).
· Students must support the technology vision of the school by using the Internet responsibly and ethically, forming partnerships that support collaboration, and by using the Internet in a manner that enhances the creating and sharing of knowledge.
· Parents must support the technology vision of the school by providing opportunities for students to have access to technology either through exposure in the home or through the use of computers at local libraries. Parents must take ownership of their child’s learning experiences by using digital tools to communicate and inform themselves of their child’s academic growth.
· The community members’ role is to support the technology vision of the school by supporting budgeting initiatives that support the purchasing of technology for student and teacher use. Community members must assist in providing additional revenue in the form of donations or taxes that support technology use in the classroom (Boser 2013).
In today’s society, students are competing globally for jobs. Being technologically competent can be the difference in gaining a position. It is important that all stakeholders understand the magnitude of technological competence in the 21st century. In order for the technology vision to be accomplish, and for students to gain the skills necessary to compete globally, all stakeholders must work together.