Saturday, July 19, 2008

ISTE: InternationalSociety for Technology in Education

Through my evaluation of the ISTE: International Society for Technology in Education website, I have discovered what I believe to be a great tool for assisting teachers in the area of technology. The website is professional and visually appealing in its appearance. I also found it to be quite user friendly, which is definitely a plus for educators that have little tech. knowledge or may feel out of their comfort zone. The menu bar located at the top of the home page allows for quick and easy navigation around the site. It offers several types of information that is beneficial for teachers. Site users have access to educator resources, educational technology support, the National Educational Technology Standards, and career information. They also offer an online bookstore, links to action groups, and a wide range of professional development opportunities. Many of the areas on the site can be accessed for free; however, some of the technology links do come with a price tag. "Membership" has additional benefits for those inclined to join. If the additional perks of a membership are as beneficial as the basic, "free" information the site offers, joining may prove to be worth the investment.

For teachers seeking to learn ways in which to successfully integrate technology into their classroom and for administrators needing to stay abreast of the latest technology available, ISTE is one site that definitely should be added to the "Favorites" list. I have added it to mine in order to support my own continuing growth in technology.