"Experiences with technology that promote continued learning, enhance communication, and foster innovation in practice" (from the LCS Vision statement, adopted May 18, 2010)
Goal 1: Best practices for technology integration are used across all grade levels and subjects, and impact on student learning and achievement is being assessed.
Curriculum and technology integration is an evolution, not an event. Over time, the successful alignment of curriculum and technology brings about observable and measurable changes in teaching/learning environments and in student achievement. The following guiding principles of tech integration are woven throughout the Technology Plan and support the improvement of student achievement in academic areas:
Student skill development in the use of technology tools is integrated into the curriculum.
Tech integration promotes critical thinking, collaborative learning, interdisciplinary learning, and improved communication skills.
Successful integration of technology requires a change in the traditional roles of teachers and students. Teachers become facilitators and students become active participants.
Technology provides students with a tool for self-directed learning and discovery.
Successful integration of technology is achieved by sustained administrative support.
Adequate, effective, continuous, and ongoing professional development and training supports successful tech integration. (see Professional Development section)
Adequate funding is provided to sustain tech integration.
An efficient infrastructure supports all users with their tech integration initiatives
LCS has adopted the ISTE standards for student learning: ISTE-NETS (National Educational Technology Standards for Students) describes the performance indicators for the above statement. These indicators represent current best practice in both student technology use and digital age learning skills. The indicators are included in an appendix to this plan.
1. Creativity and Innovation: Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology
2. Communications & Collaboration: Students use digital media and environments to communicate and work collabora
3. Research & Information Literacy: Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.
4. Critical Thinking: Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources.
5. Digital Citizenship: Students understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior.
Action Plans for Technology Integration