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Reflections and Looking Forward


As I reflect on the ISTE Standards for Administrators, I feel that much of my ethos as a school leader is reflected throughout, including a couple standards I would already consider strengths. These include the Standards (1) Equity and Citizenship Advocate, (3) Empowering Leader and (5) Connected Learner.
In my current role, I feel that myself and the Senior Management Team I am a part of, have a strong opinion and understanding about providing appropriate technology to all in students, in appropriate learning environments with qualified teachers. We look to develop responsible online behavior through our Computing curriculum, PSHE curriculum and school-wide awareness initiatives. I align with these beliefs and have helped in developing these practices in our school.  

Personally, I believe I have strengths concerning the Empowering Leader standard. I always look to champion innovation within the school and recognize those members of staff who are motivated in bringing forth new ideas. Superintendent Randy Zeigenfuss stated, “Leaders need to practice being learner-centered. Change may start with a small group of curious teachers” (Herseim, 2018). I would align my practice and ethos with this sentiment. I have worked heavily in developing assessment systems that provide evidence, as to student progress and the effectiveness of school initiatives. I feel that I inspire confidence amongst our staff teams and allow teachers a path to increase their professional learning. 

I feel that some of my aforementioned qualities are also present and tied to Standard 5, Connected Learner. I very much attempt to grow professionally, learn from others and reflect on my own practice. Modelling my own need to learn and engage amongst peers and other professionals is important to me as a leader. This ISTE standard also shows me that I can do more to aim my professional growth towards emerging technologies and innovations.
Over the passing weeks, my exposure to technology integration models, advancing research/literature and peer discourse have resulted in much reflection. When going over the ISTE standards, I do believe I must further develop in regards to Standard 4, Systems Designer. When digging into the SMAR and TPACK models of technology integration, I struggled to think how I might create and integrate either system in an effective way. I do believe that I have started to develop the needed skills and resources for such system integration, but that I can continue to improve upon them.
The ISTE standards for education leaders are an excellent foundation of the aspects needed to be considered when preparing to lead a school through use of technology. With its teacher-centered approach, these standards will be helpful in my own use, as I look to reflect on my personal pedagogy as a school leader, as well as considering various technology integration frameworks. I cannot help but notice many links between the ISTE standards and those of Dr. Sonny Magana’s T3 Framework for technology integration. Not only do they look at the specific functions and roles of technology, but how to best implement and support such changes through sound leadership and teaching practices.
As a school leader, I think the ISTE standards will be very helpful, as I consider planning and implementing any future initiatives related to technology within my school. Incorporating technology, to better impact teaching and learning, is becoming increasingly essential in today’s educational landscape. The ISTE standards will be helpful, moving forward, and act as a starting post in my personal planning and decision making.

References

Herseim, J. (2018). Handing over the reins: Shifting from a school-centered mindset to a learner-centered one. District Administration, 54(9), 66.

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