A new technology assessment of computer literacy among teachers in Lisle School District 202 found that not only are educators using computers, they are also applying them in their classrooms, officials said this week.
The informal survey of 114 district teachers showed that 90 percent are computer literate and are translating that knowledge into their teaching.
The district's director of curriculum, Randy Pipper, and instructional technology coordinator Lorie Ferguson studied teacher computer use over a three-year period and found a massive increase in basic technology skill levels and overall user comfort.
In 1997, only 11 percent of teachers were using word processors and incorporating that technical skill into lessons with students. Today, that percentage is 43 percent, Pipper and Ferguson said at a school board meeting Monday night.
Plus, 80 percent of teachers know how to use the Internet and design Web sites. Today, fully a third of the district's teachers use those skills in classrooms and with students, up from 2.6 percent three years ago.
"What's gratifying is, five years ago, we looked to see how we could [step up technology and skills in the district]," said Steve Pawlowicz, school board president. "And so we went out and purchased the equipment, made investments in people and we got exactly what it was we wanted to see."
Every teacher surveyed said they own a personal computer and 98 percent have access to the Internet.
"That's really what we're going for, that's where we want things to go," Pawlowicz said.
"And I think you're going to see that continue," Pipper added.
One obstacle teachers say they face with their own learning curve is finding the time to keep up with the advances in technology.
Feedback also suggests that many teachers want to blend technology into the classroom, but aren't sure how to go about it. According to Ferguson, that integration will happen as more classrooms become outfitted with high-tech tools.
She said the district is helping to speed that evolution along by offering technical seminars for teachers that take specific lesson plans and illustrate how and where to introduce technical elements to improve them.
Most recently, the district received a technical funding grant from the Illinois State Board of Education. The $82,591 grant will help officials upgrade and enhance their technology programs.
District officials have earmarked that money for software purchases, staff development and networking system upgrades.