In this Module you displayed your collected data to help inform the decision making process. Why is it important for educational programs to use this type of approach? How has it helped you to understand and possibly lead an organization that might face these important decisions?
It is important to use an inventory approach to educational programs in order to be strategic and thorough in decision making. As with any decision that impacts a large group, there needs to be a thorough process, or else important consideration may be left out. For example, an organization may want to implement a program such as MAP NWEA testing. Overall, it may seem like a great fit for the organization, and there may be funding to purchase it. If they fail to take inventory of devices and minimum operating requirements they may purchase a program that cannot be supported by current systems or devices. If that is the case, then further costs will be required. It is important to understand what is currently available in order to decide what will be a perfect fit.
Completing this inventory of devices and systems used in order to prepare for SBAC has helped me to understand that there is more to be considered than just the student and the device in my classroom who will be completing the assessment. There is so much “behind the scenes” that needs to be in place in order for my students to have a meaningful learning experience with the technology that is being provided. I also learned it is not only about current costs either. Technology is always changing and improving. Costs come along with those improvements and updates. As a leader, it is necessary to foresee those upcoming costs and plan ahead for them. This experience was about being thorough and mindful of the needs for today's success, as well as the needs for the future in maintaining the programs.
It is important to use an inventory approach to educational programs in order to be strategic and thorough in decision making. As with any decision that impacts a large group, there needs to be a thorough process, or else important consideration may be left out. For example, an organization may want to implement a program such as MAP NWEA testing. Overall, it may seem like a great fit for the organization, and there may be funding to purchase it. If they fail to take inventory of devices and minimum operating requirements they may purchase a program that cannot be supported by current systems or devices. If that is the case, then further costs will be required. It is important to understand what is currently available in order to decide what will be a perfect fit.
Completing this inventory of devices and systems used in order to prepare for SBAC has helped me to understand that there is more to be considered than just the student and the device in my classroom who will be completing the assessment. There is so much “behind the scenes” that needs to be in place in order for my students to have a meaningful learning experience with the technology that is being provided. I also learned it is not only about current costs either. Technology is always changing and improving. Costs come along with those improvements and updates. As a leader, it is necessary to foresee those upcoming costs and plan ahead for them. This experience was about being thorough and mindful of the needs for today's success, as well as the needs for the future in maintaining the programs.