#1 Teaching and Learning

The technology and learning component of the Texas Long Range Plan consists of several focus areas. Patterns of classroom use refer to how the teacher uses technology during instructions and the purpose it serves. Frequency/design of instructional setting using digital content lends itself to where, when, and how technology is applied. The content area and connections are linked to integrating technology in the curriculum in all subject areas. Technology applications TEKS implementation area deals with how teacher consistently apply these TA TEKS across all subjects The student mastery of technology applications TEKS discusses the percentage of students who has successfully mastered their grade level TA TEKS. The last focused area is the online learning which targets the types of web-based learning in the classroom. Locally, our progress has steadily improved in this area. We currently maintain an advanced score. The state’s progress continues at a slower rate maintaining a developing score. At the national level progress has been made through recommendations for learners to meet the technology goal of being able to be engaged in the learning experiences in and out of school that prepares them to be active, creative, knowledgeable, and ethical participants in our globally networked society (23). To improve in these area teachers need to be well trained in all aspects of the TA TEKS in their grade level to ensure students’ mastery of the TEKS. I do believe that a huge restraint in this area lies with the budget; therefore restrictions prohibits districts to provide essential training for teachers to utilize appropriate technology in their classroom for students to be able to excel in this digital age.