Reflections+on+Standard+VIII


 * Reflection on Standard VIII: Leadership and Vision **

The TF Standard VIII is an important standard that relates all other standards and to the big picture of the implementation and integration of technology in a district. Williams, J. and Redish, T. explain, “Standard VIII describes how technologists lead others in creating a research-based vision and developing a long-range strategic plan moving the vision into reality.” (p. 177). This last school year I became a member of the strategic planning committee for technology and the activities align with TF Standard VIII-D., “Lead in the development and evaluation of district technology planning and implementation.” The committee planned the strategies that would implement technology in different aspects of our district including, curriculum integration, professional development, operational tasks, community involvement, the involvement of local business leaders, and the need for technology facilitators in our district. The committee researched for answers to strategic questions, then created action plans that will expand the district’s vision for technology. These activities specifically align with the task TF Standard-VIII.D.6., “Determine strategies and procedures needed for resource acquisition and management of technology-based systems including hardware and software.” Williams, J. and Redish, T. also state, “The foundation for successful technology implementation requires educators and policy makers to possess a viable vision for technology use, enact the vision, and link the vision to other important organizational endeavors.” (p. 179). This is exactly the focus of our committee as we created action plans that will promote the implementation of technology in the district in the next 3 to 5 years. The affective tone of the committee was positive as we completed the necessary activities to address technology needs for the district. The knowledge I gained through this experience includes the leadership skills needed to reach a consensus among committee members on the critical issues related to technology. I also learned that the entire process is time-consuming and demands dedication and much time beyond the meetings to research strategic questions, but it is also rewarding as we plan and promote a district’s vision.

The knowledge I learned through the participation of this committee and the experience I have from my previous career as a plant manager in manufacturing has helped me understand the responsibilities and leadership skills required as I hope to move on to the position of technology facilitator in the near future. This experience has also taught me that this standard involves much understanding and skills to carry out the tasks of a technology facilitator effectively. I realize that the part I played in this committee is a small part of a bigger picture as our district strives to make our vision a reality but I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. Questions I have regarding this standard are; how can a facilitator continue to expand his knowledge to accomplish all the tasks in Standard VIII? How can a technology facilitator inspire and energize others to accomplish the technology vision? Can our current technology plan be evaluated and compared with the examples of an exemplary technology plans? How often should a district review and update their vision for technology? In my opinion, these questions are only a few examples related to FT Standard VIII that I would investigate. The answers to these questions will provide knowledge on several of the tasks related to this standard. In my opinion, technology facilitators and leader must motivate and empower others in the district to make the vision for technology a reality. It still puzzles me why so many districts in our state have not addressed the need for technology facilitators in their campuses especially because of the federal and state requirements of technology integration into the curriculum. In my opinion, technology facilitators play an essential role in properly preparing our teachers and students for the 21st century.

 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, pp. 177-199.
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