Long Range Plan

The Long Range Plan for technology in short is Texas' plan to educate and prepare our students, as well as educators to function in the digital age. Reflecting back about ten years ago, during a staff development the presenter said, " If you do not know how to use a computer you should not be teaching." At the same time I thought that the lady was crazy because I did not need a computer to teach. All I needed was an overhead projector, white board, a lesson plan book, grade book, a calculator and a creative mind to plan engaging lessons. Since that time, I have seen a rapid increase in the use of computers and other technoloy support systems. Gone are the days of turning in handwritten lesson plans and grade books. Lesson plan and gradebooks have been replaced with web based applications that allow teachers to enter their plans, share plans with colleagues, analyze student data, and commuicate with parents. Computer projectors and smart boards have replaced the overhead projectors, while inteactive computer games have begun to replace traditional teacher to whole class games such as bingo and vocabulary charades.
After reading the Texas Long- Range Plan, I have come to realize the words of the presenter were correct. The traditional forms of teaching are changing to meet the demands of the digital age. As an instructional leader in the digital age it is important to understand the benefits of using technology in the educational setting. Using the technology is a requirement of all districts by the state of Texas. The most beneficial factor is that the use of technology aides in actively engaging students in the learning process by appealing to their multi-sensory learning styles and by teaching the TEKS students are learning key elements needed for continuing education upon graduation and basic survival skills needed for the digital world.
Another key point instructional leaders must consider is the budget. The Long Range Plan calls for professional development on the proper use of the technology hardware and software and effective use of the technology in the classroom. Monies must be allocated for such professional development opportunities. In addition, the budget must include funding for the technology needed to meet the technology TEKS.