A VISION FOR TECHNOLOGICAL LITERACY

As the world becomes more dependent upon the sharing of information through technology, it is the responsibility of MAPS to provide educational opportunities which will lead to a technologically literate population. Such technological literacy must provide students and staff members with the employability, problem solving, and critical thinking skills necessary to remain competitive in a world increasingly reliant upon technology for the location, sharing, and understanding of worldwide information and experiences.

To achieve this outcome, MAPS must assure that both students and staff become aware of and successfully utilize the potential and power of technology. This must be accomplished through a planned sequence of curriculum and instruction which will result in technological literacy for all students of Montague Public Schools.

There are several important components in a vision for technology which strives to reach this goal. First, it is important for students to master the skills needed to understand and use technology. Second, it is equally desirable that technology become a delivery system to increase student efficiency in learning outcomes. Finally, technology awareness and application must become an important part of each district classroom.

With the incorporation of this philosophy, several advantages will accrue to both students and staff of Montague Area Public Schools. Among these advantages are:

• Creativity and the self-concept of both students and staff will be enhanced.
• Students and staff members will be encouraged to stretch themselves to achieve their goals.
• Technological literacy will transfer to various life roles and situations for both students and staff.
• Student learning will be improved through technology.
• Students will become more aware of the interdependency and interconnectedness of the world.
• Students will learn that technology is a useful tool for lifelong learning.
• Staff members will become more familiar with technology through staff development activities which focus on technology.
• Business/education partnerships will bring community resources into the educational process.
• Technology will support and enhance the curriculum and influence curriculum design.
• Use of technology to access information from remote sources.
• In-service opportunities will be available via satellite enabling staff members to upgrade their skills in instructional techniques and content areas.