Supporting Resources
Challenge:
The application of technology in education lacks the
definition and standards of an established discipline, yet there is a vast
range of technology-related issues about which educators are expected to be
knowledgeable. Topics range from integrating technology across the
curriculum, to adopting acceptable use and copyright policies; from
protecting the confidentiality of school records, to addressing student
access to inappropriate electronic content; and from obtaining reliable
information about funding programs, to having ready access for technology
support. It is an arduous and time-consuming task for teachers, media
specialists and school administrators to locate documents that identify
research and methodologies focusing on "best practices" in the integration
of technology into the curriculum and school management functions.
Recommendation:
The Wexford-Missaukee ISD should work in conjunction with
local school districts to further develop its electronic Web site with links
to an Information clearinghouses intended for the discovery and exchange of
"best practices" in technology-centered learning, teaching and educational
administration. The REMC Center will develop materials to assist all staff
in the use of technology applications. Web based technology support and a
work order system will be instituted. The two way interactive video
conferencing system with be utilized to bring staff and resources together.
Increasingly more opportunities for professional development and college
credit will be available through distance learning alternatives.
Rationale and
Implementation:
An enhanced webs site providing and linking to an
informational clearinghouse would enable educators to learn from the applied
research and practice of other education professionals. The coordination of
this recommendation rests with the ISD in coordination with the local
districts. However this endeavor must be in concert with the effort that is
under way state wide through the Michigan Department of Education and other
Educational and Non Profit organizations working with the Department.
Resources:
Resource obligations by the WMISD and the local school
districts would come in the form of staff time, training, and the
availability of technology support. It will also require coordination with
the educational organizations and agencies presently working on a statewide
informational clearinghouse of educational resources and "best practices".
Success:
One primary outcome would be the presence of a fully
developed web site that provides comprehensive information related to the
Wexford-Missaukee ISD with linkages to the local school districts and an
informational clearinghouse connected to state and national educational
resources.
