School boards and committees have yet to fully accept technology as a cost of doing business. In this case, the business is one of equitably preparing children with the skills and abilities necessary for lifelong success. Technologies such as networked or stand-alone computer workstations, along with suitable software and applications, can aid teachers in the creation of learning environments that support the development of investigation, communication, and cooperative social skills. Students working in technology-rich environments have the opportunity to participate in authentic, engaging projects. But such environments do not come inexpensively.
Many schools are unable to provide the technology needed to support engaged learning.
This plan should be put into place before any serious attempt is made for funding. The requested funding should establish a link between technology and the bigger picture of teaching and learning. Technology is not an end in itself but a helpful tool for creating and supporting engaged learning environments. Therefore, funding requests should clearly support a higher purpose than simply the acquisition of hardware and equipment. Unfortunately, this fact often is overlooked by those new to or unfamiliar with the technology-enhanced classroom.