In 2009, technology is automatic for children; especially adolescents. As the article "Leadership in the 21st Century: The New Visionary Administrator" states "today's students think and process differently." They are "digital natives." Consequently, this generation of leaders must be ready to think, learn and lead like digital natives.
The new generation of visionary must think beyond their comfort zone to ensure that technology is on the forefront of communication, data collection, collaboration and rigorous instruction. It stands to reason that technology alone does not ensure that successful procceses and programs are put into place. A visionary leader must ensure that the technology used is matched to the needs of the school and the community. If used incorrectly, there can be a disconnect between a school's vision and the chosen technology for that community. For example, if a school's vision is that parents, staff and students will work together to achieve student success, but the only means of collaboration are via the internet, then families who do not have internet access are automatically excluded as a stakeholder. It is the charge of the leader to ensure that the technology used leads to inclusion, not exclusion.
Additionally, visionary leaders understand that the use of multiple technology sources is necessary in developing life-long learners for the 21st century. In MCPS, the Seven Keys of College Readiness is a pathway that, if followed, increases the chance for students to exit the school system with the tools necessary to be succesful in college and the world beyond. For this generation, success in college and the world beyond must include the use of the growing technology and a visionary leader's roles is to ensure that every child has access to these necessary tools.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
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