Where did the standards come from?
The techstandards were developed as part of the Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology (PT3) Grant. The standards were first used with students seeking teacher certification at colleges and universities in Maryland. The student teacher candidates were required to complete portfolios and take performance assessments based on the MTTS in order to demonstrate technology proficiency prior to graduation from their programs. The PT3 grant was designed to bring about a change and ensure that graduates of teacher certification had an understanding of technology and technology integration.

Who is expected to use the standards?
It is expected that all teachers and school staff in Maryland will be able to meet the technology standards outlined by the MTTS.

Will I be required to meet the standards for certification and recertification?
While the standards are not currently tied to certification, it is a possibility that the State will make them a requirement for teachers in the future.

How do I know if I have the technology skills to meet the Maryland Teacher Technology Standards?
If you have concerns about your technology skills, you can take a self-assessment that will allow you to determine your strengths. The results of the assessment will also be used to provide suggestions about available professional development opportunities that will allow you further your skills.

There are so many things I am already doing -- I can't possibly take on any additional tasks!
The MTTS aren't designed to be additional work. Montgomery County teachers and staff are fortunate to have lots of support in the area of technology professional development. Many of the professional development sessions offered by the Office of Staff Development meet the standards and indicators determined by the techstandards. All county schools have designated Instructional Specialists from the eLearning Staff Development team who can assist you in providing best practices for integrating technology into classroom instruction.

Are there Maryland technology standards for administrators too?
Maryland Administrator Technology Standards are in the process of being developed. To view national standards for school administrators, go to the Technology Standards for School Administrators (TSSA) web site.