Four Key Areas for Web 2.0 Leadership

• Help the superintendent, other district and school leaders, and chief technology officers develop and implement a vision of transformational change in education. You bring a level of expertise about the academic content and skills that matter. You know the kinds of engaging learning environments you’d like to foster. Use this knowledge to think outside the box about the potential of Web 2.0. 

• Be the voice of teachers and students. You understand teachers’ challenges and students’ needs. You are uniquely qualified to represent their interests as your district moves forward with integrating Web 2.0 into classroom practices. 

• Incorporate Web 2.0 into curriculum and instructional programs. If your district is serious about using Web 2.0 as a game changer in your schools, curriculum and instructional programs need to reflect this commitment. Build communication, collaboration and participatory learning into instructional programs. Encourage your curriculum specialists and instructional leaders to explore the teaching and learning section of this Web site and seek out Web 2.0 applications and tools that best match subject-area and grade-level learning needs.  

• Develop and provide professional development in the effective use of Web 2.0 applications and tools. Many teachers do not have the knowledge and skills they need to use technology, or Web 2.0 applications and tools, effectively for instruction. Plan and implement professional development that builds teachers’ confidence and competencies in using Web 2.0 to foster a participatory culture of learning and support anytime, anywhere learning. Consider training, modeling and peer coaching from master teachers, plus ongoing support when teachers need more help.