Reading+Reflections,+Technology+Facilitator+Standard+VII,+Procedures,+Planning,+Policy,+and+Budgeting

This chapter begins with a discussion on U.S. schools access to and integration of technology. Although national reports indicated that schools have reached the connectivity and student-to-computer ratio goals, with nearly 100% having Internet access in 2005, teachers perceive a lack of access to technology. (ISTE) This may be a reflection of poor implementation that does not provide high quality access. Or they may not have access to the technologies they want or need to implement curriculum. (ISTE) As a technology leader, it is important to consult and confer with teachers in order to increase the access to what they need and also arrange it in a way that is useful. Although no one configuration has emerged as a standard in schools, educators are advocating portable devices and wireless networks.

This brings up the issue of budgeting. Less experienced technology leaders may make the mistake of focusing only on the initial costs of technologies rather than the Total Cost of Ownership. One must take into account the comprehensive costs of technology implementation, support, and maintenance.

The guide, Taking TCO to the Classroom: A School Adminstrator's Guide to Planning for the Total Cost of New Technology (2001), leaders are urged to take these elements into consideration when budget planning:
 * End-User Equipment
 * Infrastructure/Connectivity
 * Installation/Retrofitting
 * Professional Development
 * End-User Software and Online Resources
 * Technical Support
 * Operation Costs
 * Replacement/Upgrade Costs

Williamson, J., & Redish, T. (2009). // Iste\'s technology facilitation and leadership standards, what every k-12 leader should know and be able to do //. Intl Society for Technology in educ.