Transforming Learning

An Information Framework for the 21st Century Educational World.

 

Vision

Technology is an invaluable tool for collaboration and sharing.  Through the use of interactive technologies, BHBL constituents will be linked in a collaborative and vibrant learning environment that prepares our students for the future.

 

The students of our district will be proficient in building knowledge by giving them the skills to access and analyze information, solve problems, and communicate ideas resulting in learners who successfully participate in a global, ever-changing world.

 

Why Technology?

In the 21st century, understanding and using technology will be an integral part of virtually every aspect of daily life. It is the school system's responsibility to prepare students for this future. The classroom is the primary place where this preparation will occur; therefore, every classroom must be equipped with diverse technologies to support teaching and learning. Every teacher must be knowledgeable and skilled in the use of these technologies in daily instruction.

1.                  BHBL will inform staff members as to emerging technologies and their importance in educational use.

2.                  BHBL will train staff members in the use of said technologies.

3.                  BHBL will make available the necessary resources to every classroom.

4.                  BHBL will establish the environment for professional growth and collaboration.

 

Staff Development

 

The transformation in education cannot be accomplished without investing in the development of teachers and administrators.

 

  1. BHBL will maintain a Web Portal to help implement the Technology Framework.  This portal will centralize and organize BHBL and global resources.
  2. BHBL will establish a technology facilitator team. This team will consist of advanced users who have met the District’s qualifications.
  3. BHBL will establish a technology “buddy” program which allows for the development of basic technology skills and self-developed classroom projects.
  4. K12 Supervisors will investigate and evaluate curriculum resources integrating technology.
  5. Building Administrators will provide the means at staff meetings to showcase and update building initiatives.
  6. District Administrators will model, support, advise and encourage the integration of technology.
  7. Technology growth should be an integral part of the APR process.
  8. Model Schools, online courses, and other staff development opportunities will be available throughout the school year.
  9. Exposure to District resources is mandatory for new teacher orientation.

 

Evaluation Process

 

Evaluation of instructional technology is a continuous process that takes place in a variety of formats.  The district committee meets periodically during the year to review instructional technology initiatives, discuss long-range planning in regards to instructional technology, ensure communication regarding instructional technology within the district, and to develop recommendations to the District Administration for the continuing implementation and assessment of instructional technology throughout the District.

 

The District Technology Committee has reviewed the Mile Guide for 21st Century Skills, Milestones for Improving Learning and Education.  This document outlines six elements of 21st century learning:

 

  1. Emphasize core subjects.
  2. Emphasize learning skills.
  3. Use 21st century tools to develop learning skills.
  4. Teach and learn in a 21st century context.
  5. Teach and learn new 21st century content.
  6. Use 21st century assessments that measure core subjects and 21st century skills.

 

These elements are used as a guideline for implementing new initiatives that integrate instructional technology into our K-12 curriculum.  A survey of how teachers are using instructional technology was completed last year and will serve as a benchmark for expectations.  The survey results will provide administrators with the knowledge of how technology is being used throughout the district.  It will serve as a planning tool and also provide examples of best practices that can be shared with appropriate faculty.  The district committee has begun an initiative to interface with the staff development committee to provide effective staff development opportunities for faculty in the area instructional technology.  The committee continuously seeks methods of providing opportunities for expansion of knowledge in the area of integrating instructional technology.  One example is a tech forum established through the district email system to communicate more effectively regarding instructional technology.

 

An annual program evaluation will be completed at the close of every school year.  The results will be discussed by the district technology committee to ensure continuous improvement.