Educator Preparation and Development

The Texas Long Range plan’s vision for “Educator Preparation and Development” makes recommendations to a variety of agencies to ensure educators possess the essential skills to provide quality 21st century instruction to individualized needs. Important markers for educators include graduating from programs knowing how to effectively us technologies in the teaching and learning process, providing learning environments that are flexible, interactive, and customized for learners, and ensuring that the integration of technology is fully integrated into all content areas. The plan recognizes the need for educators to take the initiative to increase their personal learning. Educators must have ongoing professional development in order to ensure mastery of the SBEC Technology Applications Standards. Distance learning will play an important role in providing educators with professional growth as well helping overcome teacher shortage. School districts also play a strong supporting role. Schools should provide teachers with the opportunities to learn how to use technology in such a way that targets students interest and engages in the learning process.