one | Visionary Leadership
It is easier to move forward when everyone stops moving
sideways. Districts should strive to create and implement
a shared vision that integrates technology into all aspects
of learning and teaching. Without a specific plan for technology,
districts remain awash in an ocean of ideas, losing
valuable time while staff members haphazardly organize
themselves. All school leaders (administrators, teacher
leaders, and instructional technology staff) need ownership
in the vision to keep the technology plan moving in
the right direction.
As technology becomes more user friendly and accessible,
technology leadership becomes increasingly complex.
Students and teachers may believe that they can use
technology in the same ways they do at home, without an
understanding of the larger educational system and ramifications.
But the larger the district, the more multifaceted
the technology plan becomes, as leaders identify existing
assets and needs while providing the resources for staff.
As there is often a just-in-time need for resources, administrators
must provide quick direction for their teachers.
They can do this much more efficiently if the district
has adopted a proactive technology plan before such urgent
needs arise. In fact, a proactive vision is crucial for lasting
and effective technology integration.