Blog Posting #2

The first progress report on the Texas Long Range Plan for Technology was commissioned in 2008. From the report, I believe there has been some progress definitely made the achievement of technology goals in the state. Students across the state now have greater access to technology than they ever have on their campuses. They are also exposed to technology skills that were unheard of 10 years ago. Parents also are provided greater access and communication modes via technology through the use of e-mail, and their technology tools which make it easier for them to find out about their child’s grades, attendance and discipline on campus. Teachers are also able to provide students with quality instruction which integrates technology from the beginning to advanced levels. They also have the opportunity now to participate in professional development activities through a variety of formats including web-based trainings and discussions. Teachers are also able to utilize a variety or technological resources that were not available to them years ago such as the Smart Board, Smart Table, Flip Camera, and I Pad. Communicating with each other and other school employees has become much easier through e-mail as well.
It is obvious that n=much progress has been made in the implementation of technology in school districts throughout the state; however there is more that needs to be done. I believe districts still need to better track and manage their IT equipment and resources because there is a prevalent problem across the state and also the nation with mismanagement of IT equipment and resources that results in great financial losses each year. In my district alone, each year computers are lost, stolen, and unaccounted for with no one held accountable and financial losses running into the thousands. So even though gains have been made in the Texas Long Range Plan for Technology, more should and can be done to achieve greater successes in the future.