Instructional Technology Vision / Goals / Assumptions

The following are operating assumptions that will guide the development , implementation, and growth of Rhode Island's education technology systems:

Teachers, administrators, and staff members in Rhode Island's school districts will be committed to learning how technology can contribute to their ever-increasing productivity and to steadfastly incorporating technology into all aspects of their work, as appropriate.

The integrated technology infrastructure will support decision-making, staff productivity, and the teaching/learning environment. Priority in the development and deployment of technology resources and initiatives will be given to the core business of school districts - teaching and learning.

Information will be available when, where, and how it is needed to facilitate the generation of knowledge, good decision-making, and a fully informed public. Everyone in school districts, non-public schools, state education supported agencies and in the total Rhode Island school community will have access to and be prepared to use information to support his or her learning and work.

Evaluation processes will be data driven, will focus on the achievements of all students, and will identify opportunities for ongoing improvements.

Funding decisions will be made on the basis of value, that is, the contribution of the technology to high-performance learning and informed decision making.

Stakeholders at all levels should have as active a role as possible in planning and supporting the implementation of technology in schools.

Districts will be encouraged to monitor the effectiveness of technology integration and implementation and assess their impact on teaching, learning, and decision-making.