Analysis of Long Range Plan

The main thing I learned from my anaylsis of the Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology is that there is a plan. I had never heard of this plan prior to beginning this weeks assignment. I learnned that this plan is divided into four domains which include: Teaching and Learning; Educator Preparation and Development; leadership, Administraion, and Instructional Support; and Infrastructure for Technology. This plan is scheduled to be fully implemented by 2020 and it is being put in place in three phases. We are currently in phase 1 and the strategies for phase 2 and 3 will be developed as soon as it is determined what progress is being made in phase 1.
The key element in the plan is instrastructure because without the workstations and online abilities, networking, distance learning and collaborative learning cannot take place. Information retrieval, which is essential in today's gobal information based economy will also not be possible.
Infrastructure needs to be expanded and sustained by qualified indivduals.
Funding models must also be created which allows for the four domains of the Long Range Plan to be implemented.
Teacher preparation programs must prepare new teachers with the opportunity to learn and model teaching strategies that allow for the integration of technology and the content areas. Ongoing professional development for veteran teachers is also essential.
As on instructional leader, I must model the use of technology in the classroom and through my leadership duties. I can make teachers aware that the the state requires that all teachers master the Technology Applications Standards. I can assisst in the ongoing professional development of all teachers that will allow us to tecah students to develop the technical skills that they will need to compete in this rapidly changing information based global economy.