Technology Plans

     While discussing the technology plans today I was surprised at how much data has to be considered, first, before the plan can be written and implemented.  I was not surprised that student population, tests scores, and other "student centered" data was considered. I was more surprised by the gathering of data that related to what type of data the district already had, both hardware and software, and what they were looking to accomplish.  Although I was surprised, I think it is important that districts were required to analyze where they were coming from (what do they have, what do they need, what do they want) in order to write a good plan.   I think this is important information to analyze because technology is extremely expensive and uses a lot of resources within a district.  This specific data, can help guide a district in a positive direction for student learning and also with the spending of funds. 

       I was also surprised to learn about CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act).  This act is important and a very good idea.  Safety and protection of students should be a priority with districts.  This act should also be a tool to putting parents at ease when introducing technology to students and parents having concerns.