My interview was conducted with a resource technology teacher. While she has many responsibilities her main focus is teaching the teachers how to use available technology in the classroom and getting the resources to support technology use in the classroom. The most important point made during the interview was that technology is used to support learning. With that thought in mind, the technology specialist suggested that prior to purchasing technology she had to research the practical use of the technology and make sure that many people could apply it to their classrooms. A part of her decision making process is research, and another part is getting teacher feedback through pilot programs and interviews. When purchasing technology it is important to understand how it will work and if it will work with the current system in place at the school. Technology in education should support teachers’ lessons and help the students to learn the state mandated standards. A technology specialist should not go out and purchase the newest technology simply because it is new. Technology should fit the needs of the school and should be investigated prior to purchase to ensure it will support the learning environment.
