K-12 technology audit: Lessons for school leaders, 12(6)

Abstract

This article synthesizes findings from a technology audit to evaluate technology use and integration in the district of a moderate-sized suburban school district in a mid Atlantic state in the U.S. Survey and interview data were analyzed from administrators, teachers, students, and school board members. This district had in place a detailed technology plan yet half of the teachers and one third of administrators surveyed had no knowledge that the plan even existed. Issues such as access, pressure to cover content for standardized testing, and a strained relationship between the Information Technology department and the faculty emerged as barriers to effective implementation. Perhaps the greatest obstacle exposed by the audit was the district's lack of vision to fuel growth, innovation, and risk-taking. Implications are discussed.