Training is of no benefit if teachers do not have immediate access to the software or hardware for follow-up, reinforcement, and exploration. The stages in which a school acquires technology will vary substantially, depending on the existing technology at a school. Within the first year, all schools will need to ensure that teachers have access to a word processing system that can support the development of curriculum. Teachers will be encouraged to use simple technology in much of their instruction. By the time a school enters the second phase, where individual students needs are addressed, the instructional management system should be in place.
Technology can transform the learning opportunities of all students.
Two mistakes, however, must be avoided. Teachers must have the time and training they need to be able to use technology reliably and imaginatively. Too many times technology is placed in classrooms or labs without training in its use. Second, the use of technology for drilling students on arithmetic or reading skills should be limited. The learning gains are generally too small to be worthy of the investment.