Learning for Life

  Evaluating Technology Integration in Schools Technology has become a huge part of a school district's budget. Technology integration is ubiquitous in schools across the country, and the investments being made are enormous. Therefore, it is incumbent upon districts to evaluate the impact that technology purchases make in the classroom. "Significant educational resources have been invested to install and implement educational technology in classrooms. In the past, it may have been possible to evaluate this investment in terms of either numbers of students per device or level internet connectivity, but today boards of education and school leaders often focus on finding ways to determine whether this investment is paying off in terms of student learning" (Frazier & Hearrington, 2024, p. 187). Educational technology tools are most effective when they provide teachers and students with equal parts efficiency, engagement, and enhancement of learning. Technology can make le...

  The Technology Coordinator's Role in Promoting Internet Safety By: Kim Blackenburg          Technology coordinators have many responsibilities when it comes to successful technology integration in a school district. In fact, I was surprised to learn just how many laws and regulations they are required to understand and adhere to. One of the most important and largest jobs is to promote internet safety for both employees and students. It is paramount to keeping the network safe from viruses or other nefarious software. In fact, a recent breach of PowerSchool data has highlighted this real and present danger.            So, what can be done to help mitigate this danger? Employee training and awareness are key. "Professional development offerings need to be enhanced in order to more comprehensively address the issue of privacy and provide teachers and decision makers with the background and information necessary to underst...