For technology integration to be effective, educators need to learn how to use and integrate it successfully. Professional development is critical to an effective technology initiative.

It includes preparing teachers to use technology to support standards-based teaching, student-centered learning, and using more effective strategies to reach today’s “wired” students. The goal of technology integration is to use technology seamlessly so that the technology itself becomes a transparent and integral tool for teaching and learning.

Planning a professional development program is the first task.  These eleven steps will help you get started.

1. Develop a professional development subcommittee. 

2. Demonstrate examples of classroom technology use. 

3. Use multiple needs assessment instruments. 

4. Design individual learning plans. 

5. Identify leaders who can provide expertise. 

6. Create a list of on-site learning opportunities 

7. Share a list of off-site and online learning opportunities.

8. Build in time for staff planning meetings. 

9. Share successes as well as expectations not yet met. 

10. Continue to plan and re-evaluate often. 

11. Create programs that provide on-going support.