Successful technology implementation does not happen overnight. The key to success starts with the planning process to identify where you are and where you want to go to accomplish your technology goals. This process is critical and requires a plan that clearly articulates a vision, short- and long-term goals, action steps to reach these goals, and progress evaluation which allows you to make adjustments to achieve your stated outcomes.

Use the evidence-based Technology Implementation Roadmap below and associated action steps to guide your planning.

Figure 1. Technology Implementation Roadmap

Step 1. Get Ready

Review your technology landscape to help identify next steps to strengthen your technology infrastructure and establish a comprehensive communication strategy.

Action Steps:

• Select and finalize members of the Leadership Team
• Assess readiness of your school (and/or local educational agency (LEA))
• Identify current technology approach (Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), 1:1, rolling laptop carts, etc.)
• Gauge current investments in resources (staff, money, space)
• Gather information on staff and student perceptions of current technology use in the classroom
• Use information gathered to guide decisions and ensure that the team addresses the stated needs and builds on the strengths identified in the review process
• Plan outreach to stakeholders and build a community using a continuous feedback loops
• Establish a schedule and routine to ensure effective communication to key stakeholders

Step 2. Get Set

Review existing school (LEA) data, establish and communicate a vision that includes the effective use of technology, and set short- and long-term goals.

Action Steps:

• Gather and analyze relevant extant student, teacher, and school data
• Determine if additional data should be collected to address priorities and goals
• Use data to inform professional development planning and implementation activities
• Read vision statements and goals written by similar districts
• Ensure that your vision and goals describe how technology will support student learning
• Develop short- and long-term goals

Step 3. Budgeting for PD

When budgeting for technology, plan for initial costs, but do not forget long-term maintenance and replacement costs to facilitate sustainability.

Action Steps:

• Review existing technology budget
• Determine costs for upgrading infrastructure and purchasing new devices
• Identify funds to meet short- and long-term goals
• Develop a multiyear plan to support sustainability of technology costs
• Review and refine your budget as needed

Step 4. Support your Teachers

Build capacity to use and integrate technology by fostering a school culture that supports continuous professional learning. Give staff concrete strategies to integrate technology into instruction and the confidence to use those strategies.

Action Steps:

• Refine goals and set focus for the implementation process
• Define modes and frequency of professional learning activities
• Set concrete, actionable goals
• Reflect and refine professional learning plan
• Plan how you will provide increased technology access
• Determine how teachers will access support when experiencing technical difficulties and communicate this information to all staff