Effective use of technology requires changes in teaching, and the adoption of a new teaching strategy can be a catalyst for technology integration. Each school needs easy access to professionals with expertise in technology and pedagogy. While many of the barriers to using technology to support learning are the same for all poor communities, some populations have some additional issues. In some schools, infrastructure remains a serious barrier to technology adoption . Educators can benefit from tools that help them gauge the progress of technology integration over time.
Leadership is the key ingredient.
Our experiences in working with the intensive sites confirm what the research literature says, that leadership is the single most important factor affecting the successful integration of technology. This is true at the state level and at the school level. For example, the states with the most successful technology programs are those that have had visionary governors, legislators, and DOE staff who are committed to the use of technology as a tool for teaching and learning. Similarly, the schools who have made the most progress, including our intensive sites, are those with energetic and committed leaders. Here are some more specifics.