Technology Integration Strategies For Teachers And Staff example essay topic

A Career Interest Shari D. Young GEN 300 Ms. Linda Beach September 24, 2003 Abstract To use technology in the classroom is no longer the issue. The new focus has become finding the most effective way in which to integrate technology into the classroom. Educational technology is not and never will be transformative on its own. It requires the assistance of educators who integrate technology into the curriculum, align it with student learning goals and use it for engaged learning projects. This new focus has prompted many school systems to create positions for teachers who wish to specialize in this area of education. The title for this position is Classroom Technology Integrator.

The standard qualifications for this position usually include, but are not limited to the following: o Eligibility for teaching certification with appropriate endorsements o Aptitude and competence necessary for assigned responsibilities o Ability to make independent decisions in accordance with established policies and procedures o Technology certification or equivalent coursework to include: 1. Computer information systems 2. Word processing 3. Spreadsheets 4. Internet 5. E-mail 6.

Presentation software 7. Multimedia software 8. Educational computer applications 9. PC troubleshooting o Ability to train instructional staff and students o Ability to plan and develop training related to instructional applications and peripherals for use in curriculum o Professional and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with parents, school personnel, and members of the community o Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing o Ability to read and follow complex directions o Ability to abreast of and analyze advancements and trends in the microcomputer industry and make recommendations for changes and improvements to systems and / or programs There are several tasks that a computer integration teacher should plan on performing on a regular basis. Some examples of these daily tasks are listed below: o Assists with the testing and evaluation of new software and hardware o Assists in the development and implementation of a rotation schedule for school visitation o Maintains records of school visitations o Identifies technology-training needs for staff, works with the Department of Technology to develop and conduct appropriate in-service training sessions on the use of instructional software, applications, hardware, and related peripherals o Provide assistance with the appropriate integration of various technologies into daily instruction o Develop and model lessons for curriculum and technology integration o Provide technical expertise and assistance for all on-site application / instructional software o Maintain archives of model lessons on technology integration o Promote, encourage, and assist in coordination of students' participation in computer related activities o Promote and announce technology-training opportunities o Maintain documentation of training session effectiveness and the effective use of current technologies on site o Assist in maintenance and dissemination of information on Internet sites appropriate for use in daily classroom o Serve on building technology committees, as necessary o Assist and coordinate the development and implementation of the annual summer technology summer program Anyone with a desire to have a career in technology integration should have a goal of providing training and technology integration strategies for teachers and staff who are implementing technology into the K-12 curriculum with the goal of competent, sound and creative use of various instructional hardware, software and internet configurations. The typical salary range for a Classroom Technology Integrator is anywhere between $32,000 and $72,000.

A Classroom Technology Integrator for a public school system can expect to make between $32,000 and $64,000. The big plus to working for a public school system is that typically one would only work 200 days per year. Another choice for working within a school system would be to work for a private school or college. The salary for private school employment would fall between $34,000 and $60,000 and the salary for college employment would be between $35,000 and $72,000.

Another direction that being a Technology Integrator could take you would be to work for the Department of Education. This type of job would pay between $42,000 and $64,000. Demand for this type of position is on the rise. At every level of education there is a common movement to integrate technology. Technology is redefining how our students live, learn, work and play. The integration and application of technology enhances the effectiveness of students, teachers and administrators.

Word processing, computer simulations, spreadsheet projections geographic information systems and electronic communications are a few examples of how technology should be used to increase productivity and to support and enhance student learning. The use of technology in schools should empower teachers, students, and administrators with the same tools and information resources found everyday in society and in the workplace.

Bibliography

The Technology Coordinator's Web Site, Abstract retrieved September 15, 2003, web Spotsylvania County Public Schools, Abstract retrieved September 15, 2003, web Gloucester County Public Schools, Abstract retrieved September 15, 2003, web.