Week 2 Assignment, Part 2

Teaching and Learning

The “one size fits all” method of teaching does not meet the specific needs of all learners particularly in this age of globalization. Texas educators need to consider the diverse background and experiences of our students. Instruction must be tailored to fit the needs of each and every student in our classrooms. Furthermore, all students greatly benefit when given multiple opportunities to manipulate a variety of technology devices. Having said this, students need to be exposed to rich content, communicate and collaborate with peers and experts around the world, access online instructional resources, participate in distance education, and have numerous chances to build their technology skills and knowledge.

Providing equitable education to all students is a nationwide concern. To help alleviate the issue of inequity, technology is a great equalizer. In places where local resources are limited, distance education allows schools to overcome this challenge and thus provide quality education to their students. This is one of the visions included in the Texas Long Range Plan for Technology, 2006 - 2020.

The Long-Range Plan for Technology sets boundaries and expectations for teachers and students. The days when teachers have all the information and answers are over. Digital Age requires teachers to act as facilitators, mentors, and co-learners. Students in turn become active participants of the learning process. These mental images would come to reality only when a concrete plan of action is in place. Curriculum alignment, more time to visit classrooms, and more flexibility to try new strategies are some challenges that must be conquered in order for the state to prepare students who would thrive in the 21st century and beyond.


Source:

Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020.(2007, November).
Retrieved November 25, 2009, from TEA website: http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/technology/lrpt/lrpt_lrpt.html