ISTE+Standard+I

ITSE Standard I- Technology Operations and Concepts

In ISTE's Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards, TF-I states that a technology facilitator should "demonstrate an in-depth understanding of technology operations and concepts," (Williamson & Redish, 2009, p. 6). I started this program with a decent amount of basic computer knowledge, such as basic terminology, word processing skills, and general internet savvy. I felt fairly confident with my basic computer and technology skills after filling out the STar Chart each year. I was incorporating increasing amounts of technology each year and I knew I would eventually reach the highest level in every category. After reading from the STaR Chart Long-Range plan, "Standard V. All teacher know how to plan, organize, deliver, and evaluate instruction for all students that incorporates the effective use of current technology for teaching and integrating the Technology Applications Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) into the curriculum," (TEA, 2006), I knew that I had a long way to go. in this area.

I originally wanted to learn skills in web design, and other internet based programs. I also remember the slight dread I felt whenever I took the "Self Inventory". There were many concepts I had never heard of in years in education. At that point, I did not feel as though my skill set was where it needed to be if I had plans of becoming a true technology leader. I knew I had to do some serious learning and there was far more knowledge to gain and I had yet to scratch the surface of everything that was available.

Throughout this program, I have learned many new ideas and concepts related to technology leadership. I discovered many of the options available through Google docs, animation programs, podcasting, logo design, web design, etc. Many of these concepts were completely new to me when the program began in October of 2009. I still have plenty to learn and technology has a way of changing by the minute, so I will have more than enough to learn when this program concludes. During my internship, I wrote several Social Studies tests for the 7th grade staff using Google docs so that the tests could be administered in the computer lab. I think learning these skills for myself has put me in a position where I am ready for the upcoming changes that are bound to happen with the world of technology leadership.

As a technology leader I must be prepared to step up at my school when practices are becoming repetitive or ineffective. I need to have ideas to share with my peers and administrators. According to Harris, Edmonson, & Combs, I must be aware of the "Shared Vision" for my school, and I must take an active role in ensuring that my learning community embraces technology in that vision (Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J., 2010).

References:

Harris, S., Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2010). Examining What We Do To Improve Our Schools. Larchmont, NY: Eye on Education, Inc.

Texas Education Agency, (2006). Texas Long Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020. Retrieved April 13, 2011, from, []

Williamson, J. & Redish, T. (2009). //ISTE’s technology facilitation and leadership standards: What every K-12 leader should know and be able to do//. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education.