The area of Infrastructure for Technology relates to the actual physical components of technology. The number of computers on a campus and in each classroom is considered, along with Internet connectivity, and how many students per computer. As well other technology resources are considered, such as document cameras or SmartBoards to name a few examples. In regards to progress, the majority of schools are classified as Developing Tech or Advanced Tech for the area of Infrastructure for Technology. Most schools though are showing slow improvement towards the Target Tech classification over the past few years. In 2008-09, 31% of teachers indicated they were at the Developing Tech stage on the STaR chart, with only 1% indicating the Early Tech classification. By 2009-10, though, 61% of teachers were indicating an Advanced Tech classification, which shows good growth. Also in 2009-10, 7.6% of teachers indicated a Target Tech classification, which while a low percentage, it had increased 0.8% from 2008-09. The single biggest issue in regards to technology at my school is the lack of professional development. It’s wonderful to have access to the technology tools at my school, but without the proper and habitual training, what good are they in the classroom? While some training is offered, it is rare and minimal at best. This leads to most teachers putting the technology tools on a shelf to collect dust, and proceed with teacher centered instruction, which doesn’t advance the classroom or students. Professional development has to be increased substantially if we are to meet the goals of the state and the needs of our 21st century learners.
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