In order to establish and realize the integration of technology,
one must take many factors into consideration. The two most important components
of technology are hardware and software, and one cannot function without the
other, neither should more importance be placed on one component over the
other. It has been common practice to
emphasize hardware over software. Many organizations and individuals alike have
often focused on the acquisition of the hardware and hope that the software
will fall into place. I have to confess that I am one such individual. When
purchasing a computer or other hardware I usually give no thought to the
software until it is time to use it, although not deliberately. If a store clerk or salesperson is involved at
the time of purchase, he/she will remind me of the need for software at which
time the transaction may be completed, but sometimes there is just enough money
to pay for the hardware, since prior thought was not given to the software.
While it is true that the hardware usually comes with a minimum
of software for basic functioning, a computer and most other hardware is hardly
able to fully function without additional software. The purchase of hardware
and software calls for much decision-making, especially when if they are for
large-scale use. The purchaser or organization should consider a number of
factors before settling for a particular hardware type. Factors such as
manufacturer, length and ease of use, durability, and purpose for use of the
hardware should be taken into account. Most importantly, a school or other
organization should consider whether it is more practical to purchase new
equipment, or to continue using the existing hardware. The brand or manufacturer of the equipment
should be considered also, since certain manufacturers have proven to be more
reliable than others.
Even after software has been identified, decision-making
comes into play. The purpose for which the software will be used, as well as
its compatibility to hardware, among other things should be considered diligently.
Other factors should include ease of use and life of the product: how long will
it be used before needing to be changed or upgraded. The cost and the
manufacturer should also be evaluated in determining the practicality of the
purchase.
It goes without saying that the matter of performance
involves more than hardware and software. According to Hall (2008), it is
important for leaders to monitor and manage the performance of their staff, and
help them to excel. Evaluation should include more than a surface pass or fail
grade. It should allow time for reflection and self-assessment. In order to
build a strong and effective team, every leader should encourage growth in
his/her organization. But even more important, a leader should maintain an
awareness of his/her own performance and should display exemplary leadership. He/she should be just as willing to be held
accountable by team members as he/she is to demand accountability. He/she
should set higher standards and expectations and be a visionary with a clear direction
to where and how he/she wants to command the team. Leadership is not
self-exaltation, but authority under control (Eph. 6:9 - And, ye masters, do
the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master
also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.)
References
Hall, D. (2008). The technology director's guide to
leadership: The power of great questions.
Washington,
DC: International Society foe Technology in Education.
Picciano, A. G. (2011). Educational leadership and planning
for technology. New York: Pearson.
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