How to build a knowledge base?

Some approaches to learning that have emerged with educational reform efforts are associated with technology implementation efforts.

While technology by itself is not the answer to making systemic changes, it can be used to support meaningful engaged learning experiences in the classroom. Those involved in technology planning and implementation efforts need to be well informed about the technology research that discusses innovative approaches to using technology to facilitate various approaches to learning that are also informed by research.

Another major area of knowledge that you as technology planners need to know about is how to plan and actually build a technology infrastructure within your school building and throughout your district. Planning your district’s technology infrastructure requires identifying technology goals and requirements, infrastructure concerns, plans for learning interfaces and indicators of successful implementation, as well as system information pertaining to hardware and software, maintenance requirements, and upgrades. Finding ways to fund the technology infrastructure is also of concern. Schools are faced with raising funds and acquiring grants to help offset the costs of these endeavors.

Professional development of teachers is a key component to the success of any technology implementation and systemic change effort. Teachers’ professional development needs typically receive little initial attention in the planning process.

However, early planning for addressing the professional development needs of teachers, who are ultimately responsible for implementing and using the technology in the classroom, is vital. Ideally, the infrastructure and the teacher’s ability to use the technology to enhance the learning experiences of his or her students develop simultaneously.

A working knowledge of the research on how to best provide professional development provided necessary help to planners with this aspect of technology implementation. The demonstration site profiles highlight important milestones in their ongoing professional development process.