School Evaluation Summary

This final project asked us to evaluate our school along the lines of its technological maturity (as delineated by the Technology Maturity Benchmarks and the accompanying Maturity Model Benchmarks Rubric).  We completed a survey about our observations and research into the technology policies, procedures, equipment, attitudes, and infrastructure at our educational institution.  Each behavior and resource was scored according to one of four benchmark stages: The Emergent Stage, The Islands Stage, The Integrated Stage, and The Intelligent Stage.  We then commented on each area of organization within the school: Administrative, Curricular, Support, Connectivity, and Innovation.  This rubric along with our summaries and examples serve to present a well-rounded picture of the current "state of technology" at our school.

Click here for my completed survey

Click here for my completed evaluation summary

I found this exercise to be refreshing and rewarding.  Although I am still a new staff member at my school, I participated in the technology committee last year and have been heavily involved in technology as a middle and high school computer studies teacher.  It was beneficial to take a step back and take stock of all the interwoven parts of the people, materials, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding technology use and planning at "Spirit Academy".  Sometimes I get so wrapped up in the day-to-day obligations of teaching that I forget about the bigger picture of the systems model of technology working throughout the entire school.  When one piece is out of place, the system is inefficient or undervalued.

In gathering evidence for this survey and discussion, I enjoyed the opportunity to review the Action Plan (our long- and short-term technology plan) and to talk to colleagues about computer use within their classrooms.  For the most part, my observations were encouraging.  I believe we are operating at an Integrated level, as our school is doing well along most lines of technology infusion.  Some of the areas for improvement include: assessment, stakeholder involvement, staff training, technical support, and embracing new technologies.

Given there is no designated Technology Coordinator at our school, it is unlikely that anyone else has recently gone through this all-encompassing reflective process. Therefore, I hope it is of value to the school, and I look forward to sharing my analysis with the administration at an appropriate time.  In the meantime, I hope to set an example for my students (and perhaps colleagues) about the power of technology in their learning experience.  Many of the changes our school should embrace need to be inspired by a shift in attitude and motivation more than anything else.  At Spirit Academy, the pieces are (generally) in place.  It's up to the users to maximize their benefit.