Empowering Oklahoma Through Digital Citizenship and Technology
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Chapter 1: Technology in Oklahoma's Education Landscape
Oklahoma is making significant strides in integrating technology education and fostering digital citizenship. The state's government actively supports these initiatives through various developmental incentives, which enhance teaching and learning by embedding technology into educational practices. These efforts are spearheaded by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), under the guidance of Superintendent Joy Hofmeister.
The OSDE organizes monthly meetings focused on educational technology every fourth Monday from 3:30 to 4:30 PM. "Thanks to Hofmeister's leadership, Oklahoma educators have received two long-overdue salary increases averaging $7,300," highlighting the commitment to improving educational standards.
Upcoming discussions will cover topics such as digital citizenship, student engagement, accessibility tools, and strategies for digital instruction. For instance, a session conducted last August introduced various digital tools that can be accessed via the OSDE website.
Professional development sessions are also available every Tuesday during the summer, focusing on widely used educational technology tools. Previous sessions can be found through the OSDE's resources.
Section 1.1: Grants for Technology Tools
To support educational institutions, OSDE has launched a grant program providing complimentary licenses for the Sketchup drawing software to all public schools in Oklahoma. This software is particularly beneficial for creating 3D models in technology and science projects. Schools can apply for a free license through a specific form, which requires the school's Internet Protocol (IP) address for verification.
In addition to the Sketchup licenses, OSDE has secured a statewide contract with Canvas for their learning management system, enhancing the digital learning experience for students. Furthermore, the department has adopted the International Society for Technology in Education's (ISTE) Student Standards as part of the Oklahoma Academic Standards, which also includes a guide for Computer Science Educators.
Section 1.2: Connectivity Initiatives
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has called on telecommunications and internet service providers to participate in the Keep Americans Connected Pledge. Eight providers have joined this initiative, offering additional services to Oklahoma residents, such as waiving late fees and payment deferrals, with some even enhancing internet speeds. The COVID-19 Technology incentive list includes providers like AT&T, Cox, and Grand Telephone, among others.
Chapter 2: Fostering Digital Citizenship
One of the key incentives initiated by OSDE is the Digital Citizenship program. The ISTE has developed a framework to empower teachers and students as responsible technology users. This month's focus is on combating misinformation, following previous discussions on copyright laws and student data privacy.
A valuable resource for educators is a lesson plan aimed at high school students, titled "Real Fake News: Exploring Actual Examples of Newspaper Bias," which includes the Ethical Journalism Network's video, "The 5 Core Values of Journalism," available on YouTube.
Additional resources for enhancing digital citizenship can be found on the OSDE website, including guides for fact-checking, games for engaging students, and links to credible fact-checking websites such as FactCheck.org and Snopes.com.
Section 2.1: Comprehensive Digital Citizenship Curriculum
OSDE also offers the Common Sense Education (CSE) program, a comprehensive K-12 digital citizenship curriculum that encompasses various materials and lessons. Schools and educators can apply to be recognized as part of the CSE Recognition Program, which includes two certification options: CSE Digital Citizenship Certified Educator and CSE Digital Citizenship Certified School.
Teachers can also utilize the SDOC Technology Resources Guide provided by the School District of Oconee County, alongside accessing professional development webinars from edWeb.net, which cover topics like evaluating EdTech programs and frameworks for implementing digital citizenship.
Chapter 3: Technical Education and Career Opportunities
Oklahoma is home to a robust Career Technology organization comprising 29 districts across 59 campuses, offering specialized career training in over 90 fields. High school students can access these services free of charge, while adults pay a nominal tuition fee.
The state boasts 67 technical schools offering technology programs, with courses available at 87 locations across 57 cities. These institutions provide technical certificates and associate degrees, preparing students for careers in computer science and information technology.
Oklahoma State University ranks among the top 50 public universities in the U.S., offering a diverse range of computer technology degree programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral options. Furthermore, the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology emphasizes applied sciences and maintains a top-10 honors curriculum nationwide.
Section 3.1: Innovation Through Technology Startups
In addition to education, Oklahoma's landscape features numerous technology startups that are developing innovative solutions. Notable examples include Spiers New Technology, Exaptive, and Vigilant Aerospace Systems, among others. A comprehensive list of technology companies operating in Oklahoma can be found on Zippia.
Conclusions
Oklahoma's initiatives in technology education and digital citizenship are robust, equipping students, businesses, and residents with essential skills for the digital age. These programs not only enhance residents' technological fluency but also prepare young individuals for critical future job opportunities in a technology-driven world.
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