A school’s efforts in the field of ICT and education have in most cases a designated focus. These activities may be more limited or be part of a strategic work in the unit. To get the most out of the action you need to have a holistic view of what affects the unit’s work with ICT. In addition to this holistic approach to ICT you also need to develop an e-strategy, pointing out the direction for the unit’s work and a plan for follow-up strategy.
There are several international models of analysis that is used to create a picture of a school’s development in this area. One of these models is the model ”four-in-balance” from the Netherlands. This model is based on the idea that the educational use of ICT for learning benefit most if you have a balance between the four factors: infrastructure, knowledge and skills, digital content and pedagogical vision and leadership. If there is an imbalance between these factors you will not obtain optimal effect on your investments.
Step 1
Analyze the current situation on the unit connected to the model ”four-in-balance” (strengths and challenges)
Step 2
Discuss (wide) on which the future position you want on the unit (the units vision)
Step 3
Specify objectives in the short and long term, for instance in 1 year, 2 years and 5 years
Step 4
Make a follow-up on current status connected to goals, e.g. through a survey
Step 5
Discuss what actions are needed to achieve the objectives of the 1 year term, e.g. by a workshop with the staff (make an action plan with the roles and responsibilities)
Step 6
Assemble an e-strategy of the above parts (present situation, vision, objectives and action)
Step 7
Communicate the contents of the e-strategy to anchor it in the staff
Step 8
Make a follow-up of goals after one year
Step 9
Make a plan of corrective actions needed to achieve the objectives for years 2
Step 10
Continued development of the unit’s work with e-strategy