Before one can implement a Technology Integration PD in at their school, they must first develop a plan.
RECOMMENDED STEPS: Step 1. ONGOING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. The first step is communicating the idea with administration, faculty and staff at the school. Implementing a PD is a large task and requires a great deal of collaboration. Administrators must understand that this type of professional development is intended to be ongoing and circular. Meetings should be held on a consistent basis throughout the year and allow teachers time to reflect on the newly introduced programs. In addition, teachers should be provided a voice in school meetings. If teachers are responsible for integrating the technology into their classrooms, they must be given an opportunity to make decisions and provide feedback.
Step 2. CREATE A TECH INTEGRATION TEAM. It is important to include all school stakeholders in this type of professional development. To make the communication process easier among all of the stakeholders, it is highly recommended that a tech integration team is formed. These members can take on a larger role in the planning and implementing process of the PD. In addition, each tech team member can be in charge of communicating with certain groups of people (different grade levels, special area teachers, administrators, parents, etc.) and to provide them the support needed.
Step 3. CREATE A SCHOOL-WIDE TECH VISION. Developing a vision can provide a purpose to the professional development. All stakeholders should have an opportunity to voice their opinion on what the vision should look like. A vision allows everyone to know what the goals are for the PD and on the same page throughout the learning process. Step 4. CREATE A PLAN. With the vision in mind, the technology integration team can begin to generate a development plan. The plan should be extensive and ongoing. In addition, the plan should focus on having meetings that: a. Are short and to the point (educators do not have much free time and do not appreciate when it is wasted). b. Include a brief summary of each newly introduced program/resource/device. c. Allocates time for teachers to use the newly introduced program/resource/device. d. Allows teachers to evaluate products and provide feedback.