When selecting and using software and Internet sites to support meaningful learning, educational technologists, information specialists, and others responsible for teacher professional development are in a position to skillfully guide teachers to higher competency levels with a minimum of anxiety for the teachers. Teachers can be held accountable for advancing to expert stages of technology competence only when all the barriers to technology integration are addressed. A model of staff development for implementing technology in schools. Technology and the continuing education of classroom teachers. Teachers identify and select software appropriate to the curriculum and to the school's learning goals.
Teachers use available technologies and reflect on their success in meeting goals.
Allow teachers to be exposed to models of technology integration that use software specifically relating to their content areas and learning goals. Provide teachers with opportunities to explore software and share insights with colleagues. Simplify selection by preselecting a limited number of CD-ROMs or Internet sites that might meet selected learning goals. Provide a professional development corner in the school library or faculty room where reviewed software is cataloged and available to teachers. Encourage teachers to model successful curricular applications of specific pieces of software.