Reflection of Progress Report: Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020

The progress report on the Long-Range Plan for Technology contained very detailed information in the outline of progresses made in each area of technology applications through the use of technology both at home and in the classroom to determine the impact of technology on student achievement and enhancements to learning. This plan is instrumental in promoting life-long learning for students, educators, and parents in Texas. Several mandated pilot programs were discussed, including Technology Immersion Pilot (TIP) which engages students through the use of technology and monitors progress as well as challenges; the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) offers opportunity for online learning. These programs I may have heard of before, but did not know the purpose. Now I understand better the development to enhance student learning. While the Progress Report also provided details of the four areas of the Long Range Plan for Technology with detailed descriptions of technological advances and improvements in each, it also discusses how technology impacts learning, including implementing interactive online resources and programs. The information displayed here as well as in the STaR Chart provides the progress of Texas schools and teachers in meeting technological goals along with NCLB requirements of implementing technology TEKS in the curriculum. In the area of Leadership, Administration, and Instructional Support, our ESC’s provide professional development support through online, regional network, and network partners. As stated by one district administrator in the TIP, “what our philosophy is…is this is all about student learning. This is about professional development, changing the way teachers teach, and helping students learn in the best and most effective way…” (Progress Report, 2008, p. 13). As technology is ever changing in our lives, education must embrace the changes and incorporate various means of technologies to support learning, communication, and increase student achievement. This plan provides opportunities for ongoing learning through technology