Texas Long Range Plan for Technology

Teaching and Learning

I chose this section because it is directly linked to student learning. As educators, we need to modify and diversify our teaching modes in order to accommodate for each and every learner. Our learners need to be exposed to the world that is beyond their own city or neighborhood. This is where the use of technology connects to the educational setting. With the use of technology, teachers all over the globe can connect students and their learning. As stated on the Texas Long Range Plan, "The integration of technologies into Texas schools can transform the teaching process by allowing for greater levels of interest, inquiry, analysis, collaboration, creativity and content production," (PG. 13). The role of the teacher is changing with the integration of technology in the classroom. The teacher's role now is that of a "facilitator," a mentor that is only guiding the students and not being the sole source of knowledge.

This area states four strands or descriptors. They are:
All Learners:

• have access to relevant technologies, tools, resources and services for individualized instruction 24/7.
• use information and communication technologies to collaborate, construct knowledge and provide solutions to real-world problems.
• use research based strategies in all subject areas to improve academic achievement.
• communicate effectively in a variety of formats for diverse audiences.

According to the 2009-2010 Statewide STaR Chart Report, 59.3% of participants responded to be at the Developing Tech. stage. This means that they are using technology, but at the very minimal level. 37.8% of the participants responded to be at the Advanced Tech level. This means that these students are working with their peers evaluating information, analyzing data and content in order to problem solve. And only .09% responded to being on the Target Tech stage. This is where we all want to be. At the campus level, we obtained a total of 14 points for Key Area 1. We are also at a Developing Tech. Stage. This is the same compared to the state results.

Based on this information, schools locally and statewide are striving to incorporate technology the best way possible. Even though we are using technology, we are not teaching our students how to analyze and problem solve using this technology. More improvements are needed. In order for this to take place, more staff development should be offered. Teachers need to be trained as to how technology can be intregrated into the state curriculum.

Reference Links:

http://starchart.esc12.net/resources.html