The direct interactive instructional model involves five phases of instruction. These phases are referred to as orientation, presentation, highly structured practice, guided practice, and independent practice (Hollingsworth & Ybarra, 2008). Before teachers enact this model, they should first effectively diagnose each student to determine what prerequisite concepts and skills should be taught prior to the new learning. Direct instruction has a relatively solid emperical tra

To understand what is needed and build the vision of your organization, you will need to gather some information on existing systems, users, and future needs. You cannot know too much about the needs you are trying to fulfill. So take some time in this and be sure someone qualified and capable of overseeing the effort is in charge. This work should be led by an experienced systems analyst. Good organizations are built with a solid understanding of what the needs are and shoul

There are many pressures on education technology support organizations to do more and do it more efficiently. Rising numbers of computers on desktops, increased use of server based applications, ever increasing demand for network related services and a steady move toward more dependence on technology resources for critical functions puts technology managers in a position of having to deliver more than ever before with no clear indication that demands will peak. Too often, wit

Local, State, and Federal accountability systems are key issues for schools and districts. Recently, I was asked how I use the results of these assessments to develop improvement plans that target critical areas. First, I ensure that I have multiple streams of accurate data. Depending on only one set of information may potentially misinform a proposal for improvement as it may leave certain characteristics or behaviors that may be hindering improvement hidden. Once these str