Total Technology Immersion

Review of article by:

Sandy Vaughn

ISTE Volume: 38 - Issue: 2 - September/October 2010

What an inspiring story from a low socio-economic area in rural Texas. To think that a modest community could be inspired to have 24-7 laptop availablility to students in 6-12 education is amazing. To realize such a grand vision in an environment where it might have seemed improbable beyond contemplation is astounding. The realization of their challenging vision sends a message to educators everywhere.

I find myself thinking of chaos theory. An odd segue I know. One of the core concepts of chaos theory is the butterfly effect. A small act in a remote location can initiate a grand progression of events. So, if a modest little town in rural texas can achieve total technology integration, why can't we all. Who are we to be brilliant? Actually, who are we not to be. The Floydada Independent School District (FISD) could be the butterfly that helps transform the technological impact on education accross a broad landscape.

I can see how leadership was critical to the implemntation of the programs intiated in FISD. What struck me about the section devoted to leadership was that it talked more about collaboration than anything else. The role of teacher aides received as much attention as teachers or the superintendent. I would be remiss to omit the value of the school board. When we dream big and get everyone to buy into a program, we can succeed.

How did they manage the expenses? From the article, it is not entirely clear to me. Perhaps that is where the visionary leadership really manifested itself.

I love this quote: "teachers have transitioned from the traditional sage on the stage to the more favorable guide on the side." This is a key aspect of kinesthetic learning. Students today frequently want to do it themselves. They are click happy; they learn by exploring, a form of play. Learning is play, the thread that runs so true. Applying technology integration to education by varies by subject.

Reading the teaching and learning component, I found myself reminded that educators need to keep in mind that the technological landscape is forever changing. So many different devices and applications are listed. In a couple years the list will change.

Reviewing the success of programs is important. The goals of improving test scores and student professional skills preparation is critical. In the end it is all about the students.