Technology Solutions Kindergarten Inventory Implemented the annual online kindergarten inventory for all Connecticut districts that provides the Connecticut State Department of Education with critical data on the developmental progress of kindergarten students. g
Connecticut Administrator Test (CAT) Developed and implemented a new statewide online registration system and new data management system for the administration of the CAT that will make it easier for participants to register for CAT modules, and that provide the state and the Department of Higher Education with enhanced reporting capabilities, such as pass rates for higher education institutions. g
CTCurriculum.org Developed an enhanced version of CTCurriculum.org for the Connecticut State Department of Education to support the development and dissemination of quality lessons and assessments aligned to Connecticut Standards. g
Training Wheels Developed and provided support to the State Department of Education Early Childhood division in data collection for the implementation of Training Wheels’ professional development program. g
Common Core of Teaching Developed and implemented an online job analysis survey for Connecticut educators, so they can easily provide the Connecticut State Department of Education with input and feedback on revisions to the Common Core of Teaching. g
Program logos, above, are familiar to educators who work with EASTCONN to provide superior training and professional development statewide.
2010-2011 Challenges Staying Current with Technology Rapidly changing advances in technology, specifically Web 2.0 tools, create professional development challenges for helping staff to g
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remain current in using the latest technologies effectively in the classroom. District Budget Constraints Limited local resources make it challenging to provide comprehensive, ongoing professional development, including on-site, embedded coaching and technical assistance, as well as access to regional professional development opportunities. g
Staff Capacity Hiring and maintaining highly qualified technology staff, particularly those skilled in database development and data analysis, at a salary that allows us to provide cost-effective services to our member districts, is a challenge, given the current market conditions and the demand for highly skilled technology staff. g
Plans & Implications for 2011-2012 Utilize Emerging Technology Tools Continue to leverage the power of emerging technology tools, such as iPads and Social Networking sites, to develop and provide more authentic and engaging online learning opportunities for educators and students. g
Web-Based Data Management Solutions Continue to develop Web-based assessment and data management solutions for schools, with an emphasis on tools that will enhance educators’ ability to make decisions using data. g
Expanding Markets Seek new customers for technology products as a way of both reducing costs to member districts and providing a revenue stream for the research and development effort that is needed to remain current in the marketplace. g