Action Plan Evaluation

When creating an action plan that will impact an entire learning community, utilizing appropriate forms of data and collecting accurate stake holder input are imperative to achieve success. The following process will measure the outcomes of a plan to integrate technology applications in leadership and instruction at Santa Fe High School.

A strong indicator of technology progression is the STaR Chart. It is administered once a year and provides schools with their current standings in comparison to previous years and other schools in Texas. A measureable outcome utilizing the STaR Chart for Santa Fe would be increasing current scores, which are mostly a stage two developing, to a stage three advanced. The action plan would include specific areas needing improvement and target those areas for an increased score.

Professional Development is a key factor in providing support for teachers as they integrate technology in the classroom. It would be an easy endeavor to assess the current amount of hours and money invested in staff development. The Action Plan for Santa Fe might include an increase of hours and budget for staff. Sometimes an increase in these items might not produce the intended outcome. There would also need to be an accountability piece placed in the plan to ensure teachers are increasing integration of technology into the classroom. The combination of hours, money and accountability would be a measureable means for the action plan.

Utilizing technology should also improve student engagement. Research has proven over and over that students prefer real life experiences over traditional teaching methods. Therefore, as technology increases student performance should also increase. Any Action Plan must project improvement in the AYP report. This data combined with the AEIS report can provide clear data as to how students are performing on yearly standardized tests. There will also be insight as to how increased technology is impacting specific learning groups such as ESL students and economically disadvantaged.

When deciding the direction of a technology action plan is useful to understand the goals and agenda of the campus improvement committee. Utilizing current goals already in place will easily help direct a plan and insure adoption from campus and community stakeholders. Meeting with members of the CIC will help make sure there is complete understanding of wording and priorities of the team. It will also be useful communicating findings with the committee as they are working on future plans. Follow up surveys would be necessary in assessing the Action Plan’s success. This might be accomplished with a survey monkey email to all members involved.

There is no such thing as TMI in education! Deciding direction and creating plans is an arduous task made more hopeful with accurate information. Being able to evaluate those plans is necessary for adjustments, redirection and beginning again. Integrating technology is a necessary progress for the 21st century learner. Utilizing data from several sources is necessary progress for the 21st century educator.