Technology Standards, Planning and Policies

Alberta Education uses a system-wide approach to technology implementation and integration that includes the establishment of technology policies and standards.

Policies

Learning and Technology Policy Framework (2004)
The Learning and Technology Policy Framework was developed, with input from technology experts from school authorities, to provide direction and coordination for the infusion of technology across Alberta's learning system.

The Learning and Technology Policy Framework proposes a vision, principles and goals to ensure that learning and technology activity optimizes benefits to learners and enhances the effectiveness of the learning system. It also identifies the policy direction, outcomes and potential new actions for several key dimensions of learning and technology. The Policy Framework encompasses all sectors of the learning system (K-12, adult learning and apprenticeship and industry training), and will involve a broad cross-section of learning system stakeholders in its implementation.   

Education Standing Offers

Alberta Education has established Education Standing Offers (ESO) with participating vendors to enable school authorities to purchase select technology hardware and software at the best possible educational price.  Products that ESOs have been established for include:

• Videoconferencing units
• Laptop/desktop computers
• Electronic whiteboards
• Data projectors and document cameras
• Selected software titles

Further information on ESOs can be found on Alberta Education’s Learning Resources Centre website at http://www.lrc.education.gov.ab.ca/pro/gen/eso.htm.

ESOs address a range of issues related to technology integration, including:

• Affordable technology;
• Equitable access to technology;
• Interoperable systems; and
• Sustainable technology solutions.