Educators must resolve a number of critical issues in order to effectively apply and implement technology solutions in the public school (K-12) system. Notwithstanding the dire need for general funding and educational budget improvements, educational systems of today are caught in an era of rapid change associated with the following, additional, uncertainties: 1) how to best prepare students to perform as productive members of society; 2) curriculum development; 3) technological change; and 4) administrative regulation, to name but a few. It is unfortunate, but the United States stands to lose ground with respect to its standing in education as compared to the rest of the world. Some have likened this to the similar loss of stature endured as a result of leadership loss with respect to the automobile industry. As the State of California represents the largest state in the nation, as well as one of the leading "economic engines" on the planet, how it responds to these challenges will serve as a possible prediction for the rest of the country. One approach currently proposed by the State of Arizona, is presented as a possible solution to successfully achieving the results desired following technological implementations at the classroom level. The approach is based on supporting key administrators in their support of teachers and classroom dynamics as well as in the overall securing of funding, system change and continuous system-level improvement.
Educational systems today are caught in an era of incredibly rapid change (Mazurek, et al, 2000, pp. 7-9) associated with uncertainty in the following areas: 1) how to best prepare students for the future; 2) curricula development; 3) pedagogical strategies; 4) technological changes; 5) administrative policy and regulation; and 6) increased demands on the profession. Specifically in the area of technology, there is a strong need to make teachers, students, and parents aware of tec...