TECHNOLOGY PLAN TEMPLATE

North American University

Education Department
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
EDUC 5324: INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGY INTO EDUCATION
Name: Ali Aslan

Date: 7/18/15

This template is adapted from

http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/et/rs/documents/et14techplan.doc
INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
The plan should guide the LEAs use of education technology for the next three
years.

List specific start and end dates (7/1/xx to 6/30/xx). Provide a brief overview of
the LEA, its location and demographics and/or share a link to the LEAs website.
Campus name: Harmony School of Nature
ESC Region:10
City, State Zip: Dallas, TX 75249
Phone: (972) 296 1000
Number of students: 738
School website: www.hsnature.org
Percentage of economically disadvantaged: 45%
Years included on the plan: August 1, 2015-May 30, 2018

Describe how a variety of stakeholders from within the LEA and the communityat-large participated in the planning process.
Committee responsible for developing the plan, monitoring and guiding the process, and
reviewing the results:

School Principal
Assistant Principals
IT Manager
Computer Teachers
Heads of Department Chairs

The committee met on a regular basis to prepare, revise and review the plan and its
implementation. The committee also met with the teachers, members of the PTO and
representatives of local businesses in the field of technology.
Other participants form within the schools and the community who contributed in the
development of the plan by participating in assessments and helped with implementing
the plan by providing feedback and technical assistance, organizing fundraisers,
participating in trainings and other activities:
-

Teachers
PTO members
Parents
Representatives of local businesses in the field of technology

Summarize the relevant research and describe how it supports the plan's
curricular and professional development goals.
Summarize the plans major curricular and professional development outcomes
that are supported by research.
Describe and cite the relevant research that supports the plans outcomes.
Describe the connection between the research and the plans goals.
Describe information gathered from site visits, including best practices.
-

Students will use a variety of educational software to work on their skills in Math,
Reading and Writing. Students will use computers to prepare projects, do research
on the Internet, and engage in problem solving activities to develop analyzing
and critical thinking skills. Software will be used for interventions and student
assessment. According to Noeth & Volkov (2004) when combined with traditional

instruction, the use of computers can increase student learning in the traditional
-

curriculum and basic skills area.

A professional development program consisting of training sessions, mentoring
and workshops will be initiated to train teachers in effective use of laptops and
iPads for integration into curriculum and instruction and to assist students learn
more effectively. Teachers will also be trained in use of various educational
software and internet safety. Silvernail & MLTI Research and Evaluation Team
(2011) state in their research that there is evidence that a well-designed and
executed professional development resulted in improved student performance in

mathematics.
The team used the following studies and research reports to prepare the plan:

Bialo, E. R., & Sivin-Kachala, J. (1996). The effectiveness of technology in schools: A

summary of recent research. SLMQ, 25(1). Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/aasl/sites/ala.org.aasl/files/content/aaslpubsandjournals/slr/edc
hoice/SLMQ_EffectivenessofTechnologyinSchools_InfoPower.pdf
Dogan, B., & Almus, K. (2014). School Administrators Use of iPads: Impact of Training
and Attitudes Toward School Use. Computers in the Schools: Interdisciplinary
Journal of Practice, Theory, and Applied Research, 31(3), 233-250.
doi:10.1080/07380569.2014.932660
Noeth, R. J., & Volkov, B. B. (2004). Evaluating the effectiveness of technology in our
schools. Retrieved from ACT website:
https://www.act.org/research/policymakers/pdf/school_tech.pdf

Silvernail, D. L., & MLTI Research and Evaluation Team. (2011). A middle school oneto-one laptop program: The Maine experience. Retrieved from Maine Education
Policy Research Institute University of Southern Maine website:
https://usm.maine.edu/sites/default/files/cepare/MLTIBrief20119_14.pdf
United States. Office of Educational Technology. (2010). Transforming American
education: Learning powered by technology: National Education Technology
Plan 2010. Washington, DC: U.S. Dept. of Education, Office of Educational
Technology.
Valentine, D. (2002). Distance learning: Promises, problems, and possibilities. Online
Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 5(3). Retrieved from
http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/fall53/valentine53.html
Ector, W. (2013). Berryessa union school district District Technology Plan July 1, 2013
June 30, 2016. Retrieved from
http://www.berryessa.k12.ca.us/documents/Technology
%20Services/BerryessaTechPlan_2013-2016vX.pdf
-

The research, studies and technology plans used by the schools team show the
ways to integrate technology into instruction and learning. The results of the
researches in many aspects prove the positive effect of educational technology
use and describe the necessity and methodology of the professional development
needed for successful implementation of the plan.
CURRICULUM COMPONENT CRITERIA.
The Plan must establish clear goals and realistic strategy for using

telecommunications and information technology to improve education services.

(Answer at least 2 questions for each subsection below)

Describe teachers' current access to instructional technology and current use of

digital tools.
What technology is currently available to all teachers?
-

All teachers on campus have a school laptop assigned to them. Several of the
teachers have been issued an iPad. All of the classrooms have a projector. Some
classrooms have document cameras and some- smart boards. Some of the
classrooms also have desktop computers for student use.

How is technology currently being used by teachers and administrators to promote

effective classroom instruction and school management?
-

Teachers and administrators use their laptop computers to log in to the school
database to take attendance, enter assignments and grades, to communicate with
parents and so-workers, show presentations through the projector, create and
submit lesson plans, log in to Eduphoria, Aleks, Study Island, NWEA, Naviance,
and other educational websites they use for their subjects. The laptop computers
have Windows 7. The desktop computers are being used for lab classes. Available
document cameras are being used for presentation during classes. iPads are
limited. ESL and special education teachers use specific iPad applications during

their classes and tutorials with ESL and special population.

Describe students' current access to instructional technology and current use of
digital tools. Include a description about the LEA policy, practices, and/or
replacement policy that ensures equitable technology access for all students.
Do all student groups have equal and appropriate access to the available

technology?
-

There are 2 computer labs on campus; every classroom in grades K-8th has a set of
desktop computers in class. Library has 6 desktop computers available for

students.
The computers are mainly used for students to access Accelerated Reader, Aleks,

Edmodo, other online resources and for homework assignments.

8-12th grade students are issued a Chromebook that they use in school and at

home. All students have access to Internet at school.

Every class has technology classes where students are able to access online
resources and learn to work with Microsoft Office Suite, Flash, Photoshop,
Illustrator, and other programs depending on the grade level. Each student has an

assigned desktop computer they use while in the computer lab.

There are high school technology classes for students willing to enroll and get
training in web design or similar technology-related subjects.

How is technology used to extend the school day for students and to make learning
resources available during after-school hours?
-

Every K-8th class has scheduled technology classes twice a week.

Classroom desktop computers, library, and computer lab computers are available
to students during the regular school day. With teacher permission and supervision
computers in these locations are also available for student use before and after

school.
Chromebooks assigned to students in grades 8-12 are with the students at all
times, at school and at home. When lost or broken, a loaner Chromebook is given

to the student for temporary use.

Students can participate in robotics club twice a week to learn about and practice

making machines and robots and programming them.

Project-based learning implemented on campus requires students to use internet

and various software and applications to create projects and collaborate online at
least once every nine weeks.
Describe goals and an implementation plan, with annual activities, for using
technology to improve teaching and learning. Describe how these goals align to
the LEA's curricular goals that are supported by other plans. Describe how the
LEA's budget (LCAP) supports these goals, and whether future funding
proposals or partnerships may be needed for successful implementation.
This Technology Plan will be aligned to Harmony Public Schools curricular goals and
academic standards based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills.

How will technology be used to create more powerful learning experiences to

improve student academic achievement?
Students achievement in Reading, Math, and other core subjects will improve through
the use of technology they will have access to technology at any moment, and every
student will be able to use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and online resources, such as Web
2.0 applications for research, analysis, assignment and project preparation by the end of
8th grade.

How will technology be used to create more powerful learning experiences to

improve student academic achievement?
-

Students will have an all-day access to Internet- connected computers or tablets.

The necessary number of desktop computers, laptop computers, tablets and other

relevant devices will be purchased.

Students use of educational software and computer programs will be improved.
The implementation of technology application classes starting in Kindergarten

will continue with an improved curriculum.

Parent communication systems will be improved.
Students and parents will be provided continuous technical support.

Does the LEA budget include allocations to acquire the hardware, electronic
learning resources, infrastructure, professional development, and technical support
necessary to implement the plan?
The technology team in collaboration with the superintendent and Harmony Public
Schools central office analyze and write the budget to acquire necessary resources,
hardware, etc. to implement the plan. The planned budget will be able to allow the school
to implement the following steps:
-

Assessments of the needs and funding opportunities will be done periodically.

The central office grant department will be assisting the campus with additional

funding.
The required number of computers, iPads, smartboards and educational software

will be purchased based on the budget.

All teachers will gradually receive training and gradual access to technology

tools, such as laptop computers, iPads, document cameras, and smartboards.

Teachers will successfully use the technology to access and use information for

research, planning, teaching and communication.

Teachers will use research based software programs recommended by the

Harmony Public Schools central office for instruction and interventions.

Teachers will be provided ongoing training and technical support.
Teachers will implement the technology integrated curriculum in all subject areas.

Harmony School of Nature in collaboration with Harmony Public Schools central office
will develop a financial management plan to ensure appropriate prioritization and funding
of each step of the plan.

Describe goals and an implementation plan, with annual activities, to address

Internet Safety and the appropriate and ethical use of technology in the
classroom.
How and when will teachers and/or librarians help students acquire Internet safety
skills?
All teachers and students will be educated in the Internet Safety, and will follow the
appropriate and ethical use of technology in the classroom laws and regulations including
cyber bullying, protecting online privacy and avoiding online predators. There will be
specific training sessions and demonstrations for staff and students at the beginning of the
school year and ongoing training and monitoring will be provided during technology
classes specifically and all other classes in general.

What materials will be used to instruct students about Internet safety, including
how to use technologies to protect themselves and their privacy online?
The LEA will:
-

Develop or adopt an Internet Safety curriculum.

Use the curriculum to train all teachers and students in the Internet Safety, and the

appropriate and ethical use of technology in the classroom laws and regulations.
Review and revise the Students Handbook for updates on the Internet Safety,

cyber bullying, and ethical use of technology rules.

Educate teachers, students and parents in the Students Handbook procedures.
Actively monitor the schools network and teachers and students activity.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMPONENT

The Plan must have a professional development strategy to ensure that staff
understands how to use these new technologies to improve education services
(Answer at least 2 questions for each subsection below)

Summary of the teachers' and administrators' current technology proficiency and

integration skills and needs for professional development.

Are administrators able to support teachers with the integration of technology into
daily curriculum?
-

There are currently over 60 teachers and 3 administrators on campus. Professional

development programs are prepared and coordinated in collaboration with the
central office and are conducted several times a year. All teachers and
administrators are issued a laptop computer. A detailed training is provided to
ensure teachers know how to use the school database, Eduphoria and other
resources used by Harmony. Throughout the year teachers receive training in
curriculum implementation, available resources usage, lesson planning and
interventions. Several of the teachers who were issued document cameras, iPads
and smart boards received training in usage of the tools and software associated
with them.

What do teachers and administrators consider as their needs for professional

development?
-

The results of the survey conducted with the staff members indicated that 30% of
the teachers were not confident using provided devices and needed support and
training on integration technology into planning and instruction. There is a certain
need for further training in accessing and using new technologies, including
technological devices and software already provided to the teachers and new
devices and tools, such as Web 2.0 applications, incorporating the technology into
research, planning and teaching activities, and interventions.

Describe goals and an implementation plan, with annual activities, for providing

professional development opportunities based on your LEA needs assessment

data and the Curriculum Component of the plan.
How will teachers and administrators be trained and provided on-going support in
the effective integration of technology into the curriculum?
The school will provide all teachers and administrators opportunities to participate in
ongoing on-campus and online trainings, workshops and seminars provided by the
specialists from the cluster, ESC10, and the central office. The training will include
sessions on educational software use, incorporating available technology into lesson
plans, and using technology for differentiated instruction. The campus will provide the
teachers with necessary resources and continuous technical support. The school will
conduct surveys every semester to determine further needs. A skill assessment system
including walkthroughs and observations will be developed in coordination with the
central office and the results will be evaluated and reviewed for improvements.

What professional learning will be available so teachers and administrators can

effectively use technology to assist with student assessment?
Teachers and administrators will be trained in the use of assessment tools and online
resources, such as NWEA MAP, Eduphoria, STAAR testing, TELPAS, etc. District and
campus testing coordinators, instructional coaches and central office staff will be
available for support, consultation, and further training. Teachers will also be able to
receive training through ESC 10 and online.
INFRASTRUCTURE, HARDWARE, TECHNICAL SUPPORT, SOFTWARE, AND
ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPONENT CRITERIA
The Plan must include an assessment of the telecommunication services,
hardware, software, asset management, and other services that will be needed to

improve education services.

(Answer at least 2 questions for each subsection below)

Describe the existing hardware, Internet access, electronic learning resources,

technical support, and asset management already in the LEA that will be used to
support the Curriculum and Professional Development Components of the plan.
What hardware/infrastructure currently exists at the school site?
-

Hardware: Two computer labs, a set of desktop computers in most elementary

classrooms, 3 interactive white boards, 4 document cameras, 7 iPads, a laptop
assigned to every teacher. Local area network connecting over 30 classrooms, the

library, several offices, and the gym.

Wireless Internet access available at any room of the school.
Electronic learning resources: Various applications and educational software
programs such as Accelerated Reader, GoMath, Aleks, NWEA are used by

different subject teachers.

The school has an online database used daily for attendance, assignment grading
and parent communication. The school website has links to educational programs
used at school and has a student login for students and parents to be able to

keep track of the school news and student progress.

Harmony Public Schools have a mobile application for the parents to keep track
of the school news, student progress, and communicate with school staff.

Who provides technical support and what is the response?

-

The campus has two computer teachers who provide technical assistance. The
campus does not have an IT manager. When bigger issues arise the school gets
help from the cluster IT manager.

Describe the technology hardware, electronic learning resources, networking and

telecommunications infrastructure, physical plant modifications, technical

support, and asset management needed by the LEA's teachers, students, and
administrators to support the activities in the Curriculum and Professional
Development components of the plan.
What technology is needed to implement the Curriculum and Professional
Development components for students and staff?
-

The schools server needs to be upgraded to provide better networking and

Internet access.
More smartboards, laptop computers and iPads are needed for all the teachers to

be able to provide adequate instruction and student support.

Computers in the computer labs need to be repaired or replaced with newer ones.
Better Internet filters are needed on campus.

How will technical support needs be addressed to ensure that the hardware, local
area networks, wide area networks, and peripherals such as printers function
adequately and that problems are addressed within an acceptable response time?
-

The school needs to hire a full-time IT manager to be responsible for network and
infrastructure performance and maintenance issues that affect the school. The IT
manager will also supervise and help with computer and other devices issues on

campus.
Computer teachers need to receive more training on maintenance and support of

minor issues with the technological devices available on campus.

Internet activity monitoring needs to be increased.

MONITORING AND EVALUATION COMPONENT

The plan must include an evaluation process that enables the school to monitor
progress toward the specific goals and make mid-course corrections in response
to new developments and opportunities as they arise.
(Answer at least 2 questions for each subsection below)

Describe the process for evaluating the plan's overall progress and impact on
teaching and learning.

How will the LEA know whether implementation of this plan has made a positive
impact on teaching and learning?
-

Teachers will take the Technology Use Survey to evaluate the plans progress
Campus and Cluster administrators will monitor classroom instruction through
multiple observations, walkthroughs, and discussions with teachers, department

heads and coaches.

Teachers will evaluate student technology-based work and re-teach as needed
Lesson plans will be evaluated for the effective integration of the technology to

the curriculum.
All teachers will need to complete technology and curriculum assessments.
Professional development evaluation results will be reviewed.
Campus hardware and infrastructure improvement evaluation will be reviewed.
Students will be assessed for successful completion courses and mastery of

required TEKS.
Students will take the technology survey.
Parents will take the technology survey.
Student local, district and state assessment results will be evaluated.

Who will participate in the monitoring and evaluation process?

-

Teachers will assist the administration with the monitoring and evaluation of the
students progress.
- School administrators and instructional coaches will monitor, observe and
evaluate teacher progress in incorporating technology in lesson planning,
instruction and assessments.
Describe the schedule for evaluating the effect of plan implementation, including
a description of the process and frequency of communicating evaluation results
to tech plan stakeholders.
How often will data be collected and summarized? Who is responsible?
-

Data will be collected every 9 weeks.

Teachers will provide student data to the department heads.
Department heads and instructional coaches will analyze the student data and the
results of the professional development sessions and teacher observations for
strengths and weaknesses.

Computer teachers and the IT manager will collect and analyze the technology

surveys.
All of the data will be collected by the principal and shared with the
superintendent.

How often will the status of plan implementation be reported to the LEA
superintendent? To the local governing board? To other stakeholders?
-

The data will be shared with the superintendent and the central office every

quarter.
The campus principal will present current data to the committee every quarter.
The committee will meet once every nine weeks to review and analyze the results
and make necessary modifications to the plan and recommendations to the school

staff.
At the end of each year a report will be issued to inform the stakeholders about
the progress of the plan. The report will be available for parents, students, and
teachers on the school website throughout the year.