Workshop attendees learn how the information is utilized by policymakers, teachers, and parents to work for classroom, campus, and systemic improvement of instructional programs. Instructional technology integration can greatly impact the success of school improvement plans, especially for increasing reading and mathematics achievement. Despite this, school improvement plans often address technology integration in an incidental manner. For maximum effect, it is necessary to specifically outline instructional technology implementation strategies in a plan that complements the initiatives set forth in the school improvement plan. The presenter explains the benefits of having an instructional technology implementation plan as well as the pitfalls of not having one.
Participants also learn to develop a plan that correlates with their school improvement plans.
Technology affords teachers the opportunity to easily manage multiple measures of achievement, and the Beaufort County School District has worked diligently to determine ways to maximize the potential of the latest in handheld technology. Teachers participating in this presentation share some of the software and techniques they discovered or invented to manage student learning using Palm Pilots. Members of the audience are invited to join and contribute to this growing grassroots community. Session organizers also share suggestions on ways to educate and organize individual communities and school districts. Designed by teachers and curriculum leaders, this Internet-based system is a valuable tool that meets the challenges of today's high stakes testing environment.