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Instructional Technology Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ Office of Instructional Technology (OIT) supports student achievement through the integration of rich technology resources into curriculum and instruction. The use of technology, and the digital content it provides, creates challenging and dynamic learning environments that engage and motivate students. Such resources enable students to gain a deeper and more thorough understanding of content while developing 21st Century skills of digital-age literacy, inventive thinking, and effective communication. The Office of Instructional Technology continues to collaborate closely with curricular departments to develop Technology Connections for students and teachers at all levels and all subjects.  These connections align with the VSC and the Maryland Literacy Standards for Students to provide differentiated instructional opportunities.  Included are resources that enable students to achieve higher levels of learning and thinking. Lessons and activities consist of content-related and interactive web links, video clips, audio tools, interactive white boards, document cameras, digital cameras, software applications, and the like.   AACPS Blackboardis managed by the Office of Instructional Technology. All AACPS instructional staff have an account and are welcome to access resources on our Blackboard server. AACPS staff members can use the same login that they use to check their AACPS e-mail. Teachers with (virtual) Blackboard communities are able to provide additional learning opportunities and support to their students. These online communities also allow teachers to post announcements, homework, web resources, digital media, and other important information for students and parents. Many professional development communities also use Blackboard to communicate and collaborate with teachers and staff district-wide.   Through the Maryland Virtual Learning Opportunities program, the AACPS Online Campus offers high school students access to high quality web-delivered courses and instructional support. Students unable to take a specific course due to scheduling conflicts or because the course is not offered at the home school, may, with prior approval, be enrolled in an online course during the regular school day. These, mostly AP, courses serve to expand the range of learning opportunities available to AACPS students.   Online Campus Brochure     What is an Online High School Course?   The Office of Instructional Technology has initiated the AACPS eCoach program to assist in meeting the NCLB goal that students will be technology literate by eighth grade. In its fourth year of implementation, the program provides guidance and training for eCoaches to liaison with OIT teacher specialists and become technology leaders in their elementary and middle schools. These on-site trainers then share exemplary methods and skills for incorporating technology into instruction with teachers and staff.   ECoach Brochure   Principles of Technology Leadership is an online course offered by the Office of Instructional Technology to prospective and practicing administrators. The course is designed to assist administrators in developing an understanding of technology leadership and best practices that will lead to effective technology integration and improved student learning. Participants examine processes needed to enhance and differentiate instruction in order to prepare AACPS students for the 21st Century.   Technology Leadership Program for Administrators