Providing an additional networked classroom computer for each teacher who participates in the professional development sessions offered. The stipends will compensate the teachers for their time and effort to attend professional development sessions after normal school hours. And, the provision of an additional networked computer to the classroom of each participating teacher will enable the teachers and students to put their new skills into daily practice and use. The most pressing need for professional development and onsite support is for the elementary teachers and classroom aides whose networks and computers have most recently been installed. Teachers need to be compensated and recognized for their time and efforts during non-school hours to learn about how to use technology tools.
Teachers learn best through collaborative interactions with peers and mentors.
Technology support staff need to be educators as well as technology experts in order to effectively work with and mentor teachers. Professional development in the use of technology must be based upon the teachers real world needs and environment, with demonstrated applicability to immediately relevant tasks and activities. It is most effect to put computers in classrooms when teachers are prepared and ready to effectively utilize them and to help their students use them. Outline of Goals, Objectives, and Activities Goal 1 . Engage teachers and classroom aides in the effective use of technology in teaching and learning processes.