Technology Planning: State and System Issues. Policy Paper.

This paper, which focuses on technology planning by community colleges, is part of a series published by the Center for Community College Policy, designed to support state and local policymakers, as well as educational leaders who are interested in policy issues related to the two-year postsecondary sector. State policymaker's enthusiasm for increasing the level of information technology (IT) at all levels of higher education is at an all-time high. Colleges and universities are also making investments in IT, yet despite financial commitments and new developments in IT products, technology has not been a part of restructuring how instruction takes place. Provided in the document are discussions about how IT will affect new roles for both campus and community. Five issues in particular are addressed: (1) state goals and priorities; (2) statewide networks; (3) new organizational structures; (4) cost-effectiveness; and (5) financing and investment strategies. Recommendations are given on how to meet policy challenges regarding the capital for IT development and the holistic integration of IT into the classrooms and curriculum. A sidebar highlights results of a 1997 survey of 605 colleges regarding campus technology use. (AF)