Progress Report on the Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020

The Progress Report on the Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020 is a comprehensive response to Texas Education Code, Section 32.001, which requires the State Board "to develop a plan for systemic change to implement technology in an effort to meet the diverse needs of the 21st century learner."

Data was collected form such places as STaR (School Technology and Readiness) and Speak Up 2009 Survey data which all confirmed that today's learners are "digital natives" being schooled by "digital immigrants." (See my prevous blog to learn more about STaR).

Speak Up data showed 58% of students between K-2 grades use technology to play games and by 9-12 grades 57% of students are communicating with peers i.e. texting, social network sites. This data mirrors what I've observed of my 6th grade co-teach class. My students are proficient at texting (without looking), 9 out of 10 have a Facebook account, and are able to play virtual games with opponents from around the world. Using map pencils to color on paper maps is as foreign to them as it would be to ask a "digit immigrant" like myself to use Google Earch.

Furthermore, NCLB (No Child Left Behind), Title II, part D requires that all students will be technologically proficient by 8th grade. As a result, technology applications TEKs strands for K-12 have been added. These are: technology foundations, information acquisition, work in solving problems, and communications.

The full report provides ideas for implementing lessons, helpful websites, pilot programs, staff development opportunities to help support educators transitioning into the 21st century classroom. The report also gives recommendations for Texas schools so that by 2020 the NCLB requirements can be met. These are:

• All students should recieve rigorous, individualized instruction using expleriences that are relevant to their world. Learning will take place in diverse learning communities.

• All students should be able to access,synthesize, and create knowledge using current technology to solve real-world problems. Learning experiences should take place in authentic settings.

• All student should use self-directed learning skills and attitudes to help them process new information and apply what they learn in authentic settings.

The 152 page report supports a paradigm shift for Texas educators to begin changing teaching and learning practices to prepare our students to live and work in the 21st century. The full report can be accessed by clicking Progress Report