ABC High School is part of a world that is immersed in technology. If the students of ABC are expected to become productive members of society, they have to be aware of new technological advances. They must also be capable of using them. To help our students and staff become techno-savvy, the school set certain criteria on the teachers and administration. The overall goal is for technology to be used to increase student achievement and assist in authentic assessments.
Instructional goals
Technology will need to be used effectively in daily instruction. As such, there will be two computers in each classroom. One computer will be for teacher use and one will be for students. All computers will have Internet access. Having these computers available in the classroom, will allow the teacher to create pair and group projects to use during class or after school under close supervision. It will also allow students that may not have a computer at home to use a computer for educational purposes. The school will also house a computer lab. The computer lab will have thirty computers that are designed for class use. In this instance a teacher can have students research different topics within one subject. Students can then create presentations based on their research. For example, the subject may be the Civil War. A teacher can break subject into many topics, such as battles, leaders, causes, consequences, etc. The school will also have a mobile lab that can be brought into the classroom. Along with computers, the library will also have LCD projectors that can be signed out for teacher use. Each department will be allowed to order software that it feels will help students in their respective areas.
Addressing needs of instructional goals
The new technology can be used to enhance instruction in a number of ways. Word processing and email activities can be used in communication. Students can type assignments or create charts to be assessed. Through email communication teachers can create pen pal activities with classes in other states or across the world. The software selected by the departments should help students reinforce concepts in their daily lessons or gain extra practice as needed. Databases and spreadsheets help in organizational skills. The Internet aids in inquiry skills. Students can research many topics and perspectives that may not as easy to find in other locations.
Addressing and implementing administrative and infrastructure goals
The administration will be responsible for making sure that the technology is implemented smoothly and effectively. Administrators have to motivate staff to use technology. Some staff members will already know how to operate the equipment. Others will need training and some will not want to use the equipment at all. Administration has to emphasize the importance and benefits of using technology for students. Administration can begin by using the technology themselves. Administration can send emails on a daily basis. School computers can have the software for teachers to use the computer to take attendance and keep students grades. A part of administration’s responsibility is to make sure that teachers are using the technology by making observations or setting expectations for submitting documents of students’ work using technology. Another task for administration is making sure the school has a technology technician. The equipment will not always work well and will need repairs from time to time. Without someone in place to fix the innovations as needed, the technology will be wasted.
Assistive technology needs
The school must acknowledge the faculty and students with disabilities. Some persons will require assistance using technology. The measures that can be taken are numerous. For persons with vision problems key boards with large keys that allow for bigger symbols can be used. There are also special mouses that are designed for persons that are not able to use a standard mouse. Software can be downloaded on the computer. One software program can generate a voice that reads the material on the screen. The ability is good for persons that are blind. Regardless the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 requires accommodations to be made in technology for persons with disabilities.
Issues with technology
Technology comes with a price. Equipment must be purchased. Software must be purchased as well. In order to keep the equipment and software useful for students and teachers there is a cost for setup, upgrades, and network access fees. Insurance should be purchased as well in case an incident happens such as fire or theft and the equipment needs to be replaced. Another issue with technology is setting up professional developments so that teachers have the opportunity to learn how to use the technology effectively in the classroom.
Budget
According to one school, $169,863 was spent annually to implement and use technology in the classroom (Glennan & Melmed, 1996). The following lists the average cost of an area of technology: hardware $50,343; software $16,600; infrastructure $8,040; staff development $24,880; personnel $62,000 and materials $8,000. This school averaged about one computer for every eleven students, which averaged to $142 spent per pupil on technology (Glennan & Melmed).
