ISTE+Standards+Reflections


 * TF/TL Standard I Technology Operations and Concepts**

I truly believe that many educators are still somewhat reluctant when it comes to the use of technology. Many educators have mastered the use of email and basic word processing operations, but there are still those who fear it. This was one of my reasons for pursuing the courses that are provided by Lamar. It is apparent to me that younger educators will soon be entering the work force and the use of 2.0 tools will increase. According to the text educators in the digital age must acquire a basic set of technology related knowledge and skills (Williamson& Redish, 2009). In my district there are only two technology facilitators and they spend most of their time in the elementary classrooms and they have very little formal training in technology. I think most districts concentrate their resources on state wide testing not hiring qualified technology Facilitators. As stated in the text educators must be encouraged to seek basic skills in order to further integrate technology into the classroom (Williamson & Redish, 2009). It is also very important that facilitators and educators keep up with the constantly changing technology practices (Williamson & Redish, 2009).

TF/TL Standard II, Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experiences

Integrating technology into classroom practice requires teachers to engage in sophisticated Planning and design processes, but there is no guarantee that teachers will have the support they need to accomplish their tasks successfully (Williamson & Redish, 2009). For many educators planning and designing learning environments will take time. Many educators will not have the time to implement planning and designing the learning environments. For this to be successful teachers will need support. According to the authors asking teachers to integrate technology into their instructional designs invariably adds new layers of complexity to the planning process (Williamson & Redish, 2009).

TF/TL Standard III Teaching, Learning, and the Curriculum

I totally agree with the authors. There is a disconnect between the way we use technology in teaching and learning. I think the problem as I see it is that educators, administrators and district leadership have the wrong focus. Many believe that the fact that computers are in the classroom and smart boards are on the walls we are satisfying the student’s technology needs. My main reason for enrolling in this course is to be able to service my students and equip them for the digital world. If we fail to provide this to our students then we are doing disservice. As educators we must continue to learn and grow. I continue to seek ways to integrate technology into the classroom. I continue to share what I have learned with my team whether it be a website or the new 2.0 tools. As far as Technology facilitators are concerned many have very little background in my district except for the desire to aid teachers when they are having problems with emails.

TF/TL Standard IV Assessment and Evaluation

I think the use of CBT in school districts is being talked about but I don’t see it in the near future. I think one of the problems is the lack of vision of some districts and administrators. Many facilitators are not aware of standard IV and are only filling a slot. This is true in my district and thinks it is true in many other districts. In the end I think it’s all about the cost of CBTS. There are still some districts that are without classroom computers. With schools losing state funds I really doubt that this type of system will be available in my district. As stated in the case study realizing the potential of technology-based assessment programs is the job of facilitators.

References Anderson, R., & Dexter, S. (2000). School technology leadership: //Incident and impact.// Consortium for school Networking (CoSN). (2005). //Digital leadership divide.// Fullan, M. (1996, February). //Turning systemic thinking on its head.//

//TF/TL Standard V Productivity and Professional Practice//