Critical Issues Regarding ICT in Education

2015 University of the West Indies Open Campus 1 MODULEM 1 Introduction to ICT in LEducation Module Mverview The abbreviation ICT stands for Information and Communication Technologies which is defined, as a diverse set of technological tools and resources used to communicate, and to create, disseminate, store, and manage information (Tinio, 2014). These technologies include computers, the Internet, broadcasting technologies (radio and television), and telephony (Tinio, 2014). They have been utilized on a wide scale in the business sector, but in recent times, some educators have also begun to utilize ICT (Information Communications Technology) in their practice. We live in an ever-increasing interconnected world, where there is rapid change within the society and fundamental transformations in the way people in general acquire knowledge. For this reason, it is equally important that the education sector begins to utilize ICT as part of its daily operations and so be equipped to face the technological challenges of this millennium. In order for the education sector to be adequately prepared for the use of ICT, there is need for you as a leader in the sector, to be equipped with the requisite ICT knowledge and skills. Such skills will enable you to effectively lead your institution to use ICT as a tool that can enable goal achievement. ICT in Education Importance of ICT Educator in Leadership and ICT Critical Issues of ICT in Education Learning Environment using ICT Strategies tomanage ICT 2 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Module 1 Uearning Mbjectives By the end of this Module, you will be able to: 1. Assess the importance of ICT in Education; 2. Recognize the significance of an educator in leadership being knowledgeable of ICT; 3. Discuss critical issues regarding ICT in Education; 4. Describe the learning environment for using ICT; 5. Utilize strategies for managing the use of ICT in an institution. This Module is divided into two (2) units as follows: Unit 1: Planning for ICT in Education Unit 2: Managing ICT in Education Readings and Resources Required Reading Sheninger, E. (2014). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. (1 st Ed). Corwin. Chapter 1 - 4. Suggested Reading or Other Resources Ahmad, S., & Raza, M. A. (2011). Impact of Leadership Style Of Educational Administrators On Use Of Educational Technology. Academic Research International, 1(3), 107-91A. Available at : http://www.savap.org.pk/ journals/ARInt./Vol.1(3)/2011(1.3-12).pdf Tinio, V. (2003). ICT in Education. Available at : http://www.unapcict.org/ ecohub/resources/ict-in-education#documentContent. Chapter 2 - 3. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 3 UITD 1 Planning for ICT in LEducation Dnit Mverview The use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in Education is being encouraged. However, there is the need for proper planning to be done to ensure that the appropriate technologies are selected in each instance. This action will ensure the effective use of resources, as well as ensuring that they assist in carrying out the required tasks efficiently. While this is being done, there is the need to ensure that in utilizing the different technologies, that standards are used to guide the process. This is a critical step in ensuring that the resources are effectively utilized. Another consideration in using ICT in Education, is the need to utilize different strategies that will create the environment that will influence the use of technology. For this to happen, it will take educational leaders who are not afraid, to go beyond their comfort zones to lead (Sheninger, p. 42). Do you know of an educational leader who is reluctant to use ICT in their classrooms or at the institutional level? How can such mindsets be changed? Let us explore this question in this unit. Readings from Sheninger s book, Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times, will assist with some pertinent answers that we can adapt for use. Dnit 1 Uearning Mbjectives By the end of this Unit you will be able to: 1. Recognize the importance of ICT in Education; 2. Select ICT resources appropriately; 3. Justify the importance of integrating technology in education using the International Society for Technology in Education ISTE Standards; 4. Determine the conditions to influence the use of technology in educational settings. 4 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 This Unit is divided into three (3) sessions as follows:Session 1.1: Understanding the Importance of ICT in Education Technology Session 1.2: Educational Technology Standards Session 1.3: Conditions to influence use of technology Readings and Resources Required Reading International Society for Technology in Education (2007). Retrieved from http:// www.iste.org/standards Sheninger, E. (2014). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. (1 st Ed). Corwin. Chapter 1 - 4. Suggested Reading or Other Resources Social, Ethical, Legal and Human Issues. Available at: https://resources. oncourse.iu.edu/access/content/group/02a8ef51-754e-49b1-00e0- 6159bcfcacb8/public/readings/14BitterPP110to140.pdf EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 5 Seesion S 1.1 Dnderstanding the Importance of ICT in LEducation Introduction As a leader in your institution, you have the responsibility of ensuring that the right choices are made in selecting and utilizing the different technological tools and devices. To be able to do this effectively, implies that you will need to ensure that you are equipped with the requisite knowledge. This therefore means that you need to be informed and up -to -date on the benefits of ICT in education. Once you have the essential knowledge, you would therefore need to carry out your evaluations using different methods to ensure that the right selections of the different technological tools and devices are made. This will ensure that the appropriate technologies which will provide the best options will be selected for your institution. Importance of ICT in education Technology is being used in different sectors in our world and we can acknowledge that the benefits of use are numerous. As educators, you must be aware of the different benefits of ICT to teachers, students and parents and ultimately the society. This information will enable you to have a better appreciation and understanding of ICT in education and help you to see the need to utilize it in your institution as you help to prepare your students for the global market. Need for educator in leadership to be knowledgeable of ICT For you to be effective and efficient in your use of ICT, there is also need for you to be knowledgeable of various ICT resources. Sheninger (2014) in an interview with Education Week Teacher, notes that technology allows us to do what we are already doing, but in a more effective and efficient manner. How is this possible? Let us explore a few readings. As you read, you should make notes for later review. Read the three resources provided below which focus on: the competency level required of teachers using ICT the pillars of digital leadership and 6 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 impact of ICTs on learning and achievement LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.1A As you read the resources, recognize the areas of knowledge that are required. Also, reflect on your current knowledge of ICT and identify the areas that are lacking and how you can ensure that you are effectively equipped with the required skills and competencies. Dodia, D.R. (2013): Use of ICT: Required Competency for Teachers. figshare. Available at : uhttps://figshare.com/articles/Use_of_ICT_Required_Competency_ for_Teachers/661618. Sheninger, E. (2014). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. (1 st Ed). Corwin. Chapter 4. Trucano, M. (2005). Knowledge Maps: ICTs in Education. Washington, DC: infoDev / World Bank. Teachers, Teaching and ICTs. Available at: uhttp://www.infodev.org/articles/knowledge-maps-icts-education In using ICT in Education, there are many factors and issues that one needs to take into consideration before making a decision as to which resources can be utilized. We will now examine a video which highlights some of the issues in ICT for Education It focuses on the following: the ways in which issues in the development of ICT have impacted perspectives, attitudes and practices in the modern classroom supporting and opposing views on the use of technology and its impacts pedagogical theory for the effective applications of ICT to the learning environment. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 7 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.1B As you view the video, identify the main issues that are mentioned in the video. Reflect on your own experiences with ICT in your institution or community environment. . The video is entitled, The Role of ICT in Education Available at : uhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbxbNKsZ9gQ Choose one of the issues that best relates to your own experience and using the questions in the graphic below, provide appropriate responses to address the issue you identified. An example of an issue has been provided for you. Session 1.1 Summary In this Session, we focused on the importance of using ICT in Education. We utilized strategies such as brainstorming, to facilitate discussions on the various topics. In our next Session, we will explore Educational Technology Standards. 8 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Seesion S 1.2 LEducational Technology Standards Introduction In our last Session we focused on understanding the importance of ICT in education. In this session, we will examine educational technology standards. The business sector utilizes standards to ensure that they are providing quality service and products for their customers. Similarly, as you utilize technology in education, there are standards that you and your institution need to adhere to, so as to ensure that technology is being integrated effectively in teaching and learning. These standards are relevant for students, teachers and administrators and provide guidelines for both teachers and administrators to follow to ensure they achieve the standards for students. Utilizing ICT effectively based on ISTE Standards for Administrators Teachers and Students As you focus on using ICT in education, you want to ensure that you use it effectively and that there are benefits to its use. One way of achieving this, is by utilizing standards designed by The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). They have formulated a family of standards that may be be used to support students, educators and leaders with clear guidelines for the skills, knowledge and approaches they need to succeed in the digital age. The family of standards are: Standards for Students, Teachers, Administrators, Coaches and Computer (http://www.iste.org/standards/ iste-standards, 2011,). We will however focus on the Standards for Students, Teachers and Administrators. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 9 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.2 1. Read about the standards available at: uhttp://www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards 2. Reflect on how the standards can ensure that ICT is used effectively by Administrators, Teachers and Students. As you read make jottings of your reflections. 3. View this video to help you to have a better appreciation for the standards. Available at: uhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Beb45Q4dsig 10 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.3 Actsvsty Tipsc: Juetsfysong You will now do two activities to help you to understand the topic better. 1. Now that you have examined all of the standards and recorded your reflections, you will be assigned one standard selected by your tutor. You will then be required to provide an explanation of its importance as a standard for utilizing technology in education giving a justification as to why it is necessary. Your response should be creatively presented in the learning forum. Actsvsty T ipsc: ScSonarsi Below is a scenario of an educational institution that utilizes ICT. Hi Tech College has been using ICT with its student and teachers for a few years. The principal recently attended the annual ISTE Conference and learnt about the family of standards that the organization has formulated. From the presentation of the standards, he recognized that his Institution has not been effectively utilizing ICT. He therefore sees the need to introduce the standards to his staff and also to look at how they will utilize and ensure they adhere to the standards. 2. Having read the scenario, reflect on the ISTE Standards exercise you were engaged in earlier and determine how you could assist this principal in introducing the standards to his staff and how beneficial the standards will be to them to ensure that they utilize ICT effectively. Your response should be no more than five hundred (500) words and should be presented in the learning forum for feedback from your peers. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 11 Session 1.2 Summary In this Session, we focused on Educational Technology Standards that were prepared by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). As we looked at the standards, we focused on utilizing ICT effectively for administrators, teachers and students. We interacted with the content by using the justifying strategy, where we were required to provide justification for the importance of utilizing the standards in education. In the next session, we will look at conditions that can influence the use of technology. 12 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Seesion S 1.3 Conditions to influence use of technology Introduction The fact that there are some persons who are reluctant to using technology in education, indicates the need to explore the conditions that can influence its use. To effectively utilize ICT in education, you will therefore want to be provided with the critical information to ensuring that you approach the process correctly. Elements necessary to effectively manage technology for learning As you utilize ICT in your institution, there is need for you to ensure that it is being used effectively and efficiently. Would you then say, that your use of ICT in your institution is effective? When your institution receives donations of ICT resources or purchases them, do you utilize them well? It is important therefore for you to focus on finding the best possible uses for the different ICT resources. To determine the approach you should take, let us focus on the elements suggested by Adu and Olatundun (2013). EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 13 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.4 1. Read: Adu and Olatundun (2013). The Use and Management of ICT in Schools: Strategies for School Leaders. In this article published by the European Journal of Computer Science and Information Technology, the the authors discuss the potential use of ICT in schools and the issues related to Integration of ICT. Some strategies that may be beneficial to schools leaders as they seek to integrate ICT are also discussed. Please click on the link: uhttp://www.eajournals.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Use-and- Management-of-ICT-in-Schools-Strategies-for-School-Leaders.pdf 2. As you read the views of the authors, begin to think about any ideas that may be useful for you to consider as you engage with managing the use of technology for learning in your institution. 14 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1.5 Actsvsty Tipsc: CaeS Study Now that you have reviewed the main factors to consider in managing the use of technology for learning in your institution, let us now look \ at a Case Study that provides firsthand information of the experiences of a school principals quest to utilize technology in his institution. 1. Read the case below, and analyze the situation. 2. What suggestions and recommendations can you make for the principal to ensure the effective management of technology for learning at the institution, now three years later? 3. Post your suggestions and recommendations to the learning forum for feedback from your peers Three years ago, technology was viewed as an expensive frill that we would love to have but that was not worth the money when push came to shove. To me, being a technology leader meant making sure our computer labs were up to date and available for staff to use when needed. The notion of using social media was never a thought, since the perception was that it lacked any potential value for learning or education in general. As for cell phones, the only role they served was as a communication tool for students as they journeyed to and from school. Never under any circumstances would they have been used for learning during my early tenure as principal. (Sheninger, p. 64) Session 1.3 Summary In this Session, we focused on conditions to influence the use of technology and how to effectively manage technology for learning. We worked with the content using a Case Study that provided a real life example of a principals experience. From the content read and activities completed, how better prepared are you to manage the use of technology in your institution? EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 15 Dnit 1 Summary In Unit 1, the content we interacted with, helped us to have a better understanding of the procedures involved in planning for ICT in Education. We looked at the need for us to evaluate educational technology, by focusing on the importance of ICT in education, the need for educators in leadership positions to be knowledgeable of ICT and the issues related to ICT in Education. As we move into Unit 2, we will look at managing ICT in Education. 16 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 References Adu, E. & Olatundun, S. (2013). The Use and Management of ICT in Schools: Strategies for School Leaders. European Journal of Computer Science and Information Technology (EJCSIT). Vol.1, No.2, pp.10-16, September 2013. Retrieved from http://www.eajournals.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Use- and-Management-of-ICT-in-Schools-Strategies-for-School-Leaders.pdf Ahmad, S., & Raza, M. A. (2011). Impact Of Leadership Style Of Educational Administrators On Use Of Educational Technology. Academic Research International, 1(3), 107-91A. Retrieved from http://www.savap.org.pk/ journals/ARInt./Vol.1(3)/2011(1.3-12).pdf Dodia, D.R. (2013). Use of ICT: Required Competency for Teachers. Figshare. Retrieved from https://figshare.com/articles/Use_of_ICT_Required_ Competency_for_Teachers/661618 ISTE Standards (2007). Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/iste- standards Sheninger, E. (2014). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. Sheninger, E. (2014). Digtial Leadership: An Interview with Eric Sheninger. http://blogs.edweek.org/teachers/classroom_qa_with_larry_ ferlazzo/2014/08/digital_leadeship_an_interview_with_eric_sheninger.html Social, Ethical, Legal and Human Issues (1995). Retrieved from https:// resources.oncourse.iu.edu/access/content/group/02a8ef51-754e-49b1-00e0- 6159bcfcacb8/public/readings/14BitterPP110to140.pdf Trucano, M. (2005). Knowledge Maps: ICTs in Education. Washington, DC: infoDev / World Bank. Teachers, Teaching and ICTs. Retrieved from http://www.infodev.org/articles/teachers-teaching-and-icts EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 17 UITD 2 Managing ICT in LEducation Dnit Mverview In Unit 1 we examined how we should plan for ICT in education. In this Unit , we will now examine how we must manage ICT in education. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have become commonplace resources and tools in all aspects of life. Overtime, the use of ICT has changed the way businesses and governments execute different functions. The education system has also had to change the way it performs different functions as a result of the wide spread use of ICT. This has been as a result of changes in government policies related to the use of ICT in schools, while others are because of new developments in educational practices. As a result of these changes, it has become vital for teachers and school leaders to upgrade and refine their technological skills. The influx of technology into the schools, has however posed many challenging management issues for school leaders. How then can you as a school leader effectively manage the use of ICT, so that its use is of great benefit to your institution? Dnit 2 Uearning Mbjectives By the end of this Unit, you will be able to: 1. Justify the importance of equity, access, social, ethical and human issues in using technology in education; 2. Employ guidelines in selecting appropriate technological resources; 3. Formulate a list of the required elements of technological infrastructure for an educational institution. 18 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 This Unit is divided into three (3) sessions as follows:Session 2.1: Equity, Access, Social, Ethical and Human Issues Session 2.2: Selection of Resources Session 2.3: Technology Infrastructure Readings and Resources Required Reading Adu, E. & Olatundun, S. (2013). The Use and Management of ICT in Schools: Strategies for School Leaders. Available at: http://www.eajournals.org/wp- content/uploads/The-Use-and-Management-of-ICT-in-Schools-Strategies-for- School-Leaders.pdf International Society for Technology in Education. ISTE Standards. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards International Society for Technology in Education. ISTE Essential Conditions. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/essential-conditions International Society for Technology in Education. ISTE Standards for Administrators. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/iste- standards/standards-for-administrators Suggested Reading Social, Ethical, Legal and Human Issues. Available at : https://resources. oncourse.iu.edu/access/content/group/02a8ef51-754e-49b1-00e0- 6159bcfcacb8/public/readings/14BitterPP110to140.pdf EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 19 Seesion S 2.1 LEquity, Access, Social, LEthical and Human Issues Introduction The use of ICT has given rise to many issues including legal and ethical issues. It is therefore important that as an administrator, you are reasonably informed about the different issues that must be avoided as you attempt to integrate ICT in education. We would especially examine equity, access, social, ethical and human issues. An examination of these issues is so critical since a lack of understanding, can have a negative impact on your institution. The image below, outlines the areas, you should be aware of as you seek to integrate ICT in your institution. As you view the image, reflect on your current use of ICT in your institution and then compare it with the content you will interact with, in the unit. FsgurS 2.1. LEducational Technology Standards http://www.slideshare.net/mrbrdav/educational-technology-standards-8449792 20 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 We will first begin by looking at the essential conditions according to The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). As an administrator, you need to ensure that keen attention is given to essential conditions to using ICT, when making critical decisions about technological resources to be acquired. Such attention will enable you to select the correct resources for the right purposes. Also, as ICT is utilized on a wide scale, there is the need to ensure that the resources are used wisely, so that you can promote good digital citizenship. Just because todays students have grown up in a technology-rich world, does not mean that they know how to effectively and responsibly utilize technology (Sheninger, 2014). As a result, it is our responsibility as educators, to guide our students to utilize ICT in a responsible way and also for us to practice responsible use of the various technologies. Considerations for ICT in Education It is an exciting time to be in education, because there are wide-ranging tools and apps available that allow us to connect and share ideas. To be able to utilize these tools and apps successfully, it is critical for you the educator to be knowledgeable of different conditions that will aid in influencing technology for learning. The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) a nonprofit organization, serving educators and education leaders, committed to empowering connected learners in a connected world, has prepared a family of standards. These standards work in concert to support students, educators and leaders, with clear guidelines for the skills, knowledge and approaches they need to succeed in the digital age (http:// www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards). ISTE suggests however, that before an institution is able to implement the family of standards, the institution needs to utilize ISTEs Essential Conditions (http://www.iste.org/standards/essential-conditions) to effectively leverage technology for learning. Once this is utilized, then the ISTE Standards for Administrators can be implemented (http://www.iste.org/standards/ iste-standards/standards-for-administrators). After having looked at ISTEs Essential Conditions and ISTE Standards for Administrators, you must now consider how will adhering to and implementing these standards, impact on managing ICT in Education? FsgurS 2.2. ISTLE LEssential Conditions (ISTLE) EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 21 LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.1 FsgurS 2.3. http://dailygenius.com/digital-citizenship-web-tools/ Read Chapter 5 of the book, Using Technology in the Classroom which provides details of the considerations of equity, access, social, ethical and human issues. Available at: uhttp://tinyurl.com/Social-Ethical-Human As you read the content of the chapter, identify responses to the questions provided below: Focus Questions 1. How will using ICT in schools impact on social and equity issues? 2. As ICT is utilized in education, what are some ethical issues that must be considered? 3. What measure can the educational institution put in place to avoid computer viruses, spam, email scams, and phishing? 4. How will the education sector be able to rise above the issues of ethical, equity, and social concerns about technology in the schools? 5. What are some ways in which cybercrime impacts education? 6. In what ways is social networking affecting education? 7. How can social networking be used in the classroom? 8. As you utilize ICT with your students, name several strategies to ensure privacy, protect assets, confirm identity, and guard against unauthorized access. 9. As an educator, what steps would you take to ensure child safety on the Internet? 10. How important is it for the teacher to be aware of cyber safety? 22 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Now that you have answered the questions, you would have a better appreciation of the many issues that surround the use of ICT in education. Digital citizenship is also another area that you need to focus on as you consider the use of ICT in your institution. It is defined as the norms of appropriate, responsible behaviour with regard to technology use, which includes the safe, legal, responsible, and ethical use of digital information (Robb and Shellenbarger, 2015). It is critical, as you utilize ICT in your institution that both your staff and students, practice to be good digital citizens in the same way, as they had practiced to be good citizens while growing up. Let us consider how this can be attempted. LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.2 1. You are now asked to have a discussion in the discussion forum area provided in the learning exchange, surrounding the video listed below. Available at: uhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I47ltgfkkik and the article by Ribble (2011) which is available at uhttp://www.iste.org/docs/excerpts/DIGCI2-excerpt.pdf 2. In your discussions, place yourselves in the position of a principal and discuss how you would ensure that in using ICT in Education, that you implement the different considerations (ISTE Essential Conditions) and by so doing, your students and staff will be practicing good digital citizenship. From your discussions, possible recommendations or solutions should be provided, with the hope of implementing and thus enabling change, which also helps the students and staff to become good digital citizens. Below, you will find images that you should find useful in helping you to respond to the task. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 23 LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.2 CONTD Session 2.1 Summary In this Session, we focused on being equipped with the requisite knowledge, so that as ICT is used in Education, considerations are given to equity, access, social, ethical and human issues. To have a better understanding of the content, forum discussion was utilized to facilitate discussions, which helped you to have a better understanding and appreciation for managing ICT in education. FsgurS 2.6. http://elearninginfographics.com/citizenship-digital-age-infographic/ FsgurS 2.4. https://www. commonsensemedia.org/ educators/elementary_ poster FsgurS 2.5 http://www. technologyrocksseriously. com/2014/10/before-you-post-think. html#.VmrxB2SDFBd 24 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Seesion S 2.2 Selection of Resources Introduction As educational institutions make significant decisions to investing in technological tools and devices, there is need for the use of appropriate methods or criteria in determining the best selections. By following specific guidelines, this will ensure that the most suitable tools and devices are chosen, thus enabling the institution to having the better resources at its disposal. Selecting appropriate resources is essential, as often, institutions acquire technological resources that they are unable to use. They acquire the resources, merely because it is the more modern tool available, without an identified need. Perhaps, your institution falls in this category. In reflecting however, can you say that the right decisions were made? Were suitable resources acquired? Were correct methodologies employed in selecting resources? Are the resources being effectively utilized in the institution? Procedures to select resources As part of the decision making process, to identify the technological resources you will need for your institution, there is need for you to utilize some criteria to make your selections. One such model that can be used, is the SECTIONS Model. This model was developed by Bates and Poole (2005) and is a framework for selecting and using technology. As you use this model, you will be able to look at different elements that you can use to analyze your situation and thus make appropriate decisions. What are the different elements seen here that can be used to analyze your situation? Media Selection Interactivity Organization Novelty Speed Students Ease of Use Cost Structure Teachingand Learning FsgurS 2.7. SLECTIMUS Model EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 25 LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.3 The different elements in the model are: students, ease of use, cost structure, teaching and learning, interactivity, organization, novelty and speed. Let us now do an activity to assist in developing our understanding. 1. View the following presentation SECTIONS Model uhttp://media.open.uwi.edu/EDLM6002/M1/SECTIONS_Model/ index.htm and then read the article provided in the link uhttp://www.class.uh.edu/classidt/Tutorials_Help/profs/hybrid/ SECTIONSFramework.pdf 2. From the content you interacted with above, prepare a document that outlines the different elements that you would take into consideration, when selecting technologies for an educational institution under your leadership. 26 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.4 SSlSctsong TSchoniligscal RSeiurcSe: PriblSm Silvsong Figure 2.8. Problem Solving (StevTon, 2014 & Maxwell, 2011) Please read the following vignette: The new principal of Mangoty Secondary School has just taken up his new position and has requested members of staff to provide him with information relating to the operations of the institution. One of the areas that he has looked at, is the use of ICT in the institution. In the documents he has read, he recognizes a number of issues with the use of ICT in the institution and is unsure of where to begin to make the necessary changes and adjustments. One of the major issues that he has identified is that of stable Internet access. From discussions he has had with different members of staff, he recognizes that no proper procedure was followed in selecting the different technological resources. He now wants to rectify the situations but is unsure of how to approach it. Ca\ n you help the principal of this school? 1. In groups of four, work collaboratively to identify the possible problems that you think are being experienced with the use of ICT at Mangoty Secondary School. 2. Work on solving the problem by providing recommendations to the principal. Use the article available at uhttp://inesm.education.unesco.org/files/TCO-deploying-framework. pdf and Chapter 2 Digital Leadership by Eric Sheninger to assist you in your problem solving. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 27 Session 2.2 Summary In this Session, we focused on the selection of ICT resources and the procedures that are involved. By following the procedures, you are now able to make the right choices which will allow you to be able to meet the needs and demands of your institution. We also utilized problem solving. The use of this strategy helped you to have a better appreciation and understanding of selecting ICT resources. In the next Session, we will look at Technology Infrastructure. 28 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 Seesion S 2.3 Technology Infrastructure Introduction In our last Session, we looked at the factors to consider in the selection of resources. In this Session, we will look at Technology Infrastructure. The advancements in technology has placed some level of pressure on educational institutions. As a result, educational leaders have begun to recognize that current structure and function of institutions of learning, are not in tune with the real world that is continuously advancing beyond the walls of schools (Sheninger, 2014). Educational institutions have therefore had to review their technological infrastructure, in order to make the necessary adjustments. As you look at improving the technological infrastructure of your institution, it is useful for you to be knowledgeable of technology and technological resources. This information will enable you to position your institution to be better equipped to effectively prepare students to function in the technological world. Requirements for ICT Infrastructure As an educational institution looks at using ICT, there is need for the institution to design and implement a Technology Plan that will guide the appropriate use of ICT in the institution. A technology plan is prepared by a school or library, to explain how telecommunications and information technology will be used to achieve educational goals, curriculum reforms, or library service improvements. uhttp://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/educational_technology/tech_ plan/ and FsgurS 2.9. Uetwork (Msei, 2013) EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 29 uhttp://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te300.htm It therefore means that for an institution to realize the benefits of technology, schools must develop a plan for integrating technology into the curriculum. An effective technology plan is based on the shared vision of educators, parents, community members, and business leaders who have technological expertise. It ensures that technology strengthens existing curricula and supports meaningful, engaged learning for all students. It also specifies how the technology will be paid for and how its use will be supported (November, 1996). LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.5 1. Read the article by November (1966) available at uhttp://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te300. htm 2. Based on what November says in his article, how can you go about working at creating a technology plan for your institution? Based on the needs and different ICT resources at your institution and those to be purchased, create a technology plan including the elements you feel are essential. 30 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 LEARNING ACTIVITY 2.6 ThS ISTE LSad aond Traonefirm Dsagonietsc Tiil As we saw in Unit 1, the alignment to standards will enable you to determine the necessary resources that are needed and so you will then be able to make the correct acquisition. This therefore means that as the administrator, you need to be knowledgeable of such standards, and be guided by more knowledgeable persons who are au fait with ICT and would seek to provide you with their suggestions and recommendations. One way in which you can assess the ICT situation at your institution, is to utilize an assessment tool, such as The ISTE Lead & Transform Diagnostic Tool. This is a free resource that takes a snapshot of your school or districts alignment and generates a free report with data that can guide to the 14 Essential Conditions for learning and teaching with technology. This tool will therefore inform your tech planning and implementation decisions as you move forward. The site to do your diagnosis is available at: uhttp://www.iste.org/lead/lead-transform/diagnostic-tool The questionnaire takes approximately 20-40 minutes to complete. If you cant finish it in a single sitting, dont worry! Your answers will be saved, and you can return to it any time. Having used the diagnostic-tool, what did you find out? How will you now use this new information? How will this information be used in your Technology Plan? Session 2.3 Summary In this Session, we focused on the requirements for ICT Infrastructure. We were able to identify the different resources that are needed and the reasons they are required. By focusing on the requirements, it will enable you to make the right choices which would be of great benefit to the different stakeholders. To facilitate discussions, we utilized the Discussion Forum. The use of this collaborative strategy, helped you to have a better appreciation and understanding of selecting ICT resources. EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 31 Dnit 2 Summary In Unit 2, we were able to equip ourselves with the knowledge to effectively manage ICT in Education. The content we interacted with, provided us with a clearer view of what is involved in managing ICT in Education. We looked at considerations for ICT in Education, selection of resources and technology infrastructure. From the content we interacted with, how will you as an administrator ensure that your staff utilize technology in their practice? How will you utilize technology for administrative functions? How will you make decisions as to the resources that you will select? How will you ensure that the resources are effectively used? Based on your responses to these questions, they will determine your level of understanding of ICT in Education. Module 1 Wrap Dp As we explored Module 1, we focused on an introduction to ICT. This helped us to identify the importance of ICT in Education. Once this was established, we were able to recognize the significance of an educator in leadership being knowledgeable of ICT. This we learnt is critical if ICT is going to be used effectively and efficiently in the educational institutions. We were then made aware of critical issues regarding ICT in Education especially considering the importance of being good digital citizens. We then explored different strategies for managing the use of ICT in an institution, which will enable you to be effective leaders in the use of ICT. 32 EDLM6002 Essential ICT Skills for Educational Leaders MODULE 1 References Deploying ICTs in Schools (2009). Retrieved from: http://inesm.education.unesco.org/files/TCO-deploying-framework.pdf ISTE Essential Conditions. Retrieved from: http://www.iste.org/standards/ essential-conditions Forum Discussion (2015). Retrieved from: http://www.iskconvarnasrama.com/ home/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ForumDiscussionIcon.jpg Gigling, M. (2004). Needs Assessment Of ICT In Education Policy Makers In Asia And The Pacific Funded By Japanese Funds-In-Trust Towards The Development Of A Toolkit For Policy Makers. Retrieved from: http:// unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0013/001378/137815e.pdf Maxwell (2011). Problem Solving. Retrieved from: http://www.creativerealities. com/innovationist-blog/bid/51377/3-Useful-Creative-Problem-Solving- Techniques-for-Brainstorms November, A. (1996). Critical Issue: Developing a School or District Technology Plan. Retrieved from: http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/ technlgy/te300.htm Osei, C. (2013). Network. Retrieved from: http://jhack.co.uk/2013/02/a- beginners-guide-common-network-protocols/ Ribble, M. (2011). Digital Citizenship in Schools. Retrieved from: http://www. iste.org/docs/excerpts/DIGCI2-excerpt.pdf Sheninger, E. (2014). Digital Leadership: Changing Paradigms for Changing Times. (1 st Ed). Corwin. Chapter 1 - 4, 9. Shellenbarger, T. & Robb, M. (2015). Promoting Digital Citizenship and Academic Integrity in Technology Classrooms. Retrieved from: http://www. facultyfocus.com/articles/teaching-with-technology-articles/promoting- digital-citizenship-academic-integrity-technology-classrooms/ StevTon (2014) Problem Solving. Retrieved from: http://www.creativerealities. com/innovationist-blog/bid/51377/3-Useful-Creative-Problem-Solving- Techniques-for-Brainstorms The SECTIONS Framework (2003). Retrieved from: http://www.class.uh.edu/ classidt/Tutorials_Help/profs/hybrid/SECTIONSFramework.pdf The SECTIONS Model. Retrieved from: http://www.authorstream.com/ Presentation/air.bear-512967-the-sections-model/