The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) has created technology standards for teachers, administrators, and students. The challenge for school leaders is to assess the knowledge and skills of their district. By using assessment tools, school districts can find if and where they need to improve the integration of technology as part of their instructional strategies and curriculum.
School leaders are starting to realize that the focus should not just be on just increasing the number of computers or increasing the number of Internet connections. You cannot install interactive boards in all classrooms and expect teachers to start using them. The purpose of using assessment tools is to make sure that districts are providing teachers with the professional development to go along with the proper infrastructure. With proper instruction, teachers will learn to align technology alongside their curriculum. With proper technology integration, students will learn to use technology to help solve problems and find solutions.
Using an assessment tool to analyze your district does not come without concerns. Teachers are already pushed to their limit during the day. Asking them to complete one more report can be daunting. It is important to explain to teachers the purpose of the assessment and to take the time to complete the assessments with complete honesty. Also, it is crucial to find an assessment tool that provides immediate feedback. Teachers want to see the results when they spend their valuable time completing reports.
I think there is growing evidence that technology is helping improve student achievement. By implementing technology assessments among school districts, school leaders can make sure technology is changing the environment of the classroom.
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