Competency 4.03 Technology Specialist Role
Challenges faced by Technology Specialists as Leaders
The leadership that is expected of Technology Specialists is similar to that of any other educational leader. First and foremost, they need to understand the operations of the district and how technology can support its goals. They must have at least a basic understanding of hardware and be able to do troubleshooting. Technology Specialists must work with staff, students, parents and community members as well as support staff, and administrators. Some of the roles that the Technology Specialist is responsible for is taking on include trainer, mentor & integrator. One of the main goals is to teach staff to u se technology as a means (tool) for creative problem solving and provide technology as a means for professional development and collaboration. But before they can implement district wide use, they must support administrators in becoming active technology users. One of the greatest challenges is securing the ability to provide resources/funds to enhance the use of technology in classrooms which involves all of the budgetary restrictions that go along with it. They need to “model the model” by meeting all learners at their level. They need to manage both instructional and administrative uses of technology—data management as well as integration so it is essential for them to stay current and up to date on the most effective technologies. Many of the skills needed to be an effective leader in the area of technology are listed above: knowledge, organization, communication, but there are certain other skills that a technology specialst needs to exhibit. It is necessary for the to be a ssertive in trying to share the importance of the changes which they are trying to implement. They must be patient with those who may not be as in tune with the current trends and empathetic as well. As we move more towards an information driven society, the role of the technology specialist is going to become essential and recruiting good leaders to fill these roles is going to be a critical goal for all districts.
Return to main portfolio page for Kristin Hokanson