The Alaska Technology Standards emphasize the need for Alaskan students to both use technology and to understand its impact on individuals and society. Examine your technology resources and articulate a plan for using the technology available and acquiring additional technology components. Build in a plan for staff development. Then consider some specific examples of technology applications.
Teachers already use a great deal of technology and technological products.
Maps, magazines, textbooks, photographs, telephones, copiers, overhead projectors, TVs, and VCRs are examples of communications technology already commonly found in schools. There is a tendency to believe that only high tech approaches will enable students to survive and thrive in the next century. The teacher remains the most important technology resource in the classroom. Most educators can cite many examples of technology purchased but left untouched because teachers did not know how to use it. Teachers who wish to make better use of modern technology must first make themselves familiar and proficient with what is available.