Long-Range Technology Plan

The Long-Range Plan for Technology offers Texas schools a vision and plan to provide leaders, teachers, and students technology application proficiency and instructional integration. From 2006 to 2020, the plan will be refined and updated based on actual progress and new technology as it becomes available.

The first domain applies to students. Research, problem-solving, and communication are the skills to promote. All students need access to tools and resources for individualized learning. Traditional teaching methods need to be replaced with learner-centered, authentic experiences. No Child Left Behind requires all students to achieve technology literacy by eighth grade. In order to accomplish this, technology will need to be aligned and integrated into core content areas.

The second domain applies to educators. New educators will enter the profession with proficiency in current technology applications. Ongoing professional development will ensure all teachers become and remain proficient. Offering online learning will provide abundant opportunities and make professional development more convenient. Interactive learning communities will provide support and structure to help teachers integrate technology into instruction.

The third domain applies to leaders. Leaders need to model professional use of technology. Offering staff development, including distance education, will help teachers increase their understanding and use of technology for daily tasks and instruction. Leaders, with the help of a technology committee, need to implement and update campus goals through collaborative planning and budgeting. District leaders need to look for ways to expand classes, including online and distance learning, for students.

The fourth domain applies to an infrastructure system. Essential to achieving this vision is the strong framework to provide support. The planned infrastructure makes sure that the district has reliable funding, data software, high-speed connectivity, easy and constant access, and instant technical assistance. The students and teachers in Texas need state-wide, equitable access that connects homes to schools to businesses to libraries which will create a collaborative learning community for all.

As an instructional leader, it’s important to understand and implement this long-range plan. With district support and a collaborative technology committee, a principal can lead the campus to improved technology use and lesson integration. Technology goals can be integrated with objectives in the Campus Improvement Plan.