Texas was one of the first states to create a long-range plan for technology. This original plan, 1988-2000, focused on the use of technology in the classroom. In 2006 we adopted the current Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020. This plan has led to a change in our overall educational focus. We are now preparing our students for the future, and enabling them to take control of their learning through technology. The Progress Report on the Long-Range Plan for Technology examines the progress that Texas teachers and students are making in meeting the technology goals.
I was glad to see the state asked for feedback from our students as well as teachers and parents. It was not surprising that our students in high school reported using MP3 players for downloading music (76%), cell phones for texting (66%), and computers for updating Facebook (67%). I found it interesting that teachers felt that communication skills and collaboration skills are what our students will need the most in order to be successful in the 21st century, and yet many of them are still uncomfortable with dialogue in the classroom and cooperative groups.
The Progress Report showed the greatest growth in the areas of Leadership, Administration and Instructional Support and Infrastructure for Technology. I find this interesting because these two areas are focused primarily on district level support and availability of computer usage for students. We must find ways to make the same increases in the areas of Teaching and Learning and Educator Preparation. These are the areas that have the most effect on our students.
