Texas Long Range Plan for Technology 2006-2020
Assignment Week #2 Blog #2
The Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020, establishes a shared vision of teaching and learning, and the processes for improved student academic achievement. Through the application and integration of technology students will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to be successful academically in school and be able to be actively participate in a digital age that is constantly changing.
Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020, is a comprehensive strategic plan that is divided into four key areas: Teaching and Learning; Educator Preparation and Development; Leadership, Administration, and Instructional Support; and Infrastructure for Technology. This plan is aligned with the Technology Applications of Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). The plan is laid out with expectations and recommendations so that the goals of the plan can be accomplished and make the vision a reality. “Rigorous curriculum standards, quality instructional materials, and comprehensive student assessments provide the framework for ensuring student success.” (p. 3)
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Federal and State mandates that states report progress toward technology excellence. Therefore, the state of Texas created the Texas STaR Chart as a tool to evaluate teacher and campus progress towards meeting the Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology. The campus STaR chart summary gives us key area classifications of: Early Tech, Developing Tech, Advanced Tech, and Target Tech in the four key areas of the (LRT) plan. Most importantly, the chart can be used for technology planning, budgeting for resources, and evaluation of progress in local technology projects.
The Campus STaR Chart for our campus revealed that we are in the Developing Tech area for all areas. My concern is that we have been in this area for the last two years. Our Technology Cadre needs to assess each of these areas and determine where we need to improve. All of the four areas are important, but in order to make the technology reform possible it takes effective professional development. Training must be effective, and adequate time for implementation is necessary for all subjects.
Educator Preparation and Development is important if we are to make an impact on student learning. Through technology, we can increase positive results for both teachers and students. Students will reap the benefit more so in critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
As a teacher and a future leader, I realize how important it is to have effective professional development for all teachers to make the greatest impact on student learning. Technology is a tool to prepare our students to becoming technology literate, academically successful in the classroom and be competitive in this digital age.
Citation:
Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020. (2011). Retrieved February 23, 2011, from http://www.tea.state.tx.us/technology/etac
