The National Draft of Technology Based Learning

Texas has been informed as well as conducted research on the transformation of education via technology. It’s reflected in the Texas Long Range Plan. The nation plays a role in this s primary supporters but also stakeholders in this plan. Their plan reflects in their vision to help our democracy work, provide better jobs and a greater earning power to our citizens, as well s give Americans the ability to compete globally. This will be accomplished through strategic rising of the amounts of our graduates and closing the achievement gap. I agree that these goals are proactive and will need cost effective short term goals in order for success to be obtained. But I believe that the Nations’ plan to engage and empower learners through their experiences is being implemented through the Texas Long Range Plan. For learning to take place on a personalized level, “the programs and projects that work must be brought to scale so every school has the opportunity to take advantage of that success…actions…must be strategic and coherent (Office of Educational Technology, 2010, pg v).” The drafted plan not only speaks to learning, but to its counterpart, teaching, in the manner of modeling. If students must have a leveled field for 21st century learning, their facilitators must too have a technology integrated learning environment coupled with connected team teaching. Professional Development and training obviously play a vital role in accomplishing the aforementioned task. Not only are professional developers given the responsibility of supplying teachers with technology-supported experiences and instructional practices, but educators are expected to seek ongoing training to shape their “new” identities as facilitators and build confidence in the scope of technology. As suggested in the draft plan, my concern falls with the motivation of the “now” educators who insist that they “do NOT have time” to learn technology, is how to creatively blend professional development within the work day without creating extra stressors or making time a burden for teachers. This will only decrease their morale to work towards their new roles. I believe that Planned Learning Communities are a safe environment, if used appropriately, for sharing techniques, and examining and reflecting of best practices.