Vision
According to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) it is important to empower students to become lifelong learners and give them opportunities to develop skills needed to think critically (2000). Therefore, it is very important for technology to enhance teaching and learning in P-12 schools. We can do this by redeveloping teaching practices and ensuring we are using the ISTE standards to guide our instructional practices. In return, this will provide our students with meaningful technology opportunities and skills that can be used in the future.
Students should have access to the technology and digital tools that will give them 21st century skills and prepare them for jobs. Digital devices include Chromebooks, tablets, audio books, and many more that can give students meaningful opportunities. Students needs to have access to these devices from the start of their school career and continue until college. This exposure will ensure students have gained enough practice to feel comfortable being around technology in their jobs. Also, students who have access to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) are also equipped with the needed tools for 21st century. Access to the digital tools mentioned above can support this area that is often neglected by school districts.
My vision for technology in P-12 schools is to encourage teachers to design and facilitate authentic learning experiences that gives students the opportunity to take the role of experts. Teachers should also use assistive technology to meet the needs of students with disabilities. By doing this, teachers are offering students with disabilities the same opportunities as the others. Teachers can also use technology to track data and make improvements in instructional practices to meet the needs of the diverse learners found in a classroom. I also envision students giving opportunities to STEAM curriculum. For me, STEAM is very important because it is giving students the chance to access technology differently. Through STEAM, students are able to become problem solvers, owners of their learning, and put their technology skills to use for real-life scenarios/activities.
Another part of my vision to ensure teachers and students have access to various digital tools and technologies to complete projects, assignments, collaborate and communicate with classroom peers and those globally. These technologies can also help students support with teachers, and local community members when completing community/career-based projects. Technology facilitators and administrators have an important role ensuring teachers and students have the most up to date technology and training. It is also important to have a clear vision for the technology used in classrooms.
References
International Society for Technology in Education. International Association for Computing in Education International Council for Computers in Education. (2000). ISTE national educational technology standards (NETS). Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education.