Technology+Facilitation+Standards+VIII

ISTE’s Standard VIII, Leadership and Vision

Standard VIII makes a distinction between management and leadership. Williamson and Redish state that the leader inspires, creates visions and goals while a manager establishes agendas and provides structure for the program. Since most of these technologies were not available when many educators and policy makers were in school themselves they “often have difficulty imagining how new technologies can support educational endeavors” (Williamson & Redish, 2009). The Southwest Independent School District in San Antonio, Texas, uses a technology specialist to provide training for board members so they are familiar with new technologies and can see how they may be used in the classroom. By providing this training policy makers are able to see more clearly to create a vision for the district.

There are four main components to a technology plan, a vision, description of current reality, an action plan, and an evaluation plan. An exemplary plan includes a focus on student learning, is grounded in research, aligned to other strategic initiatives, is comprehensive, is simple and clear, useful and achievable, measurable and logical. The students must remain the focus. Technology is one more tool for students to use, like a textbook or calculator. Learning has to be student focused. The vision and implementation of technology must be comprehensive and realistic. The funding provided by the federal government through programs like E-rate and the Technology Innovation Challenge Grants, have forced districts to examine their technology needs and provide specific goals and objectives prior to receiving funds.

The students must remain the focus. Technology is one more tool for students to use, like a textbook or calculator. Learning has to be student focused. The vision and implementation of technology must be comprehensive and realistic. The funding provided by the federal government through programs like E-rate and the Technology Innovation Challenge Grants, have forced districts to examine their technology needs and provide specific goals and objectives prior to receiving funds. References Williamson, J., & Redish T. (2009). Leadership and Vision. In Jeff Bolkan, Lynda Gansel, Lanier Brandau (Ed.) ISTE’s Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards (pp. 177 - 199). International Society for Technology in Education. Eugene, OR