Foreword
To live, learn, and work successfully in an increasingly complex, information-rich and knowledgebased society, students and teachers must utilize technology effectively. Within a sound educational setting, technology can enable students to become:
Capable information technology users
• Information seekers, analyzers, and evaluators
• Problem solvers and decision makers
• Creative and effective users of productivity tools
• Communicators, collaborators, publishers, and producers
• Informed, responsible, and contributing citizens
Effective and pervasive use of technology is paramount in the schooling process of Xinmin. Each Xinmin student will have the opportunity to acquire important technology competence in the above areas.
The key individual in helping students develop those capabilities is naturally the classroom teacher. The teacher is responsible for establishing the classroom environment and preparing the learning opportunities that facilitate students’ use of technology to learn, communicate and to be independent learners. Today’s classroom teachers hence need to be prepared to provide technology-supported learning opportunities for their students. Being prepared to use technology and knowing how that technology can support student learning have become integral skills in every teacher’s professional repertoire. Teachers need to be prepared to empower students with the advantages technology can bring. Class lessons, both real and virtual, must have teachers who are equipped with technology, resources and skills and who can effectively teach the necessary subject matter content while incorporating technology concepts and skills.
The XMSS Teacher competency guide forms the framework that prepares and equipped our teachers a deeper understanding with a repertoire of rich tools that can enhance the teaching and learning experience of the students.
Planning and Designing
· Identify technology resources and evaluate them for appropriateness.
· Plan strategies to facilitate student learning in a technology-enhanced environment.
· Design and develop appropriate learning opportunities that use technologically- enhanced instructional strategies.
