CoSN's Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) tm Certification Program A Career Pathway for the District Technology Leader
CoSN Mission Empowering educational leaders to leverage technology to realize engaging learning environments.
CoSN Core Belief The primary challenge we face in using technology effectively is human, not technical For that reason, CoSN focuses on Leadership and Policy
Who are CoSN Members? Core Audience: District technology leaders Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) Chief Information Officers (CIOs) Technology Directors Also policy makers and influencers from the public and private sectors
Why Certification? | Why Now? Enables strategic and systemic use of technology in K-12 schools Recognizes evolving role of the CTO Addresses gap between dual aspects of CTO’s job
Why Certification? | Why Now? Creates a clearly identifiable role for the CTO within a district’s leadership structure Elevates the profession and encourages districts to include CTO the Cabinet level
The Changing Role of the CTO In the past decade, the role of the CTO has evolved and now requires not only technical and educational skills and abilities, but also political and interpersonal skills.
The Framework
Why the Need for a Framework? To illustrate the expanded role of CTO as an education—not just technology— leader. To define best practices, whether or not they are followed in every school district. To identify the skills and knowledge that CTOs need to either acquire or to strengthen.
Why the Need for a Framework? To recognize, better understand, and engage in dialogue about evolving role of CTO To describe clearly identifiable role for CTO within your district’s leadership structure To help guide the interview and hiring process
How Framework Should Be Used To validate CTOs who already have these skills and knowledge To provide roadmap for professional development for both CTOs and those who hire them To illustrate the need for partnership of Teaching, Learning, and Technology Services
How Framework Should Be Used As a tool to self-assess To consider dual aspects of CTO’s job— instructional and technical To study for CETL certification exam
Leadership & Vision Leadership & Vision
Leadership & Vision Strategic Planning
Leadership & Vision Leadership & Vision Strategic Planning Ethics & Policies
Understanding the Educational Environment Instructional Focus and Professional Development
Understanding the Educational Environment Instructional Focus and Professional Development Team Building & Staffing
Understanding the Educational Environment Instructional Focus and Professional Development Team Building & Staffing Stakeholder Focus
Managing Technology & Support Resources Information Technology
Managing Technology & Support Resources Information Technology Communications Systems
Managing Technology & Support Resources Information Technology Communication Systems Business Management
Managing Technology & Support Resources Information Technology Communication Systems Business Management Data Management
Core Values & Skills Communicator & Innovator
Core Values & Skills Communicator & Innovator Exhibits Courage
Core Values & Skills Communicator & Innovator Exhibits Courage Flexible & Adaptable
Core Values & Skills Communicator & Innovator Exhibits Courage Flexible & Adaptable Results-Oriented
Creating the CETL Exam December 2010 – NSF grant June 2011 – Item writing panel assembled Framework updated December 2011 – Beta tested March 2012 – Officially launched
Program Governance Governed by Certification Governance Committee (CGC) Combined total of more than 160 years of ed technology experience Decide all policies and procedures 4 subcommittees
Exam Structure Two-Part Exam Multiple Choice – scored on site Essay – scored by practicing CTOs Internet-Based Testing (IBT) Must pass both to earn CETL designation
Exam Structure Leadership & Vision – 40% Understanding the Educational Environment – 30% Managing Technology & Support Resources – 30%
Leadership & Vision Leadership & Vision – 15% Strategic Planning – 15% Ethics & Policies – 10% LV= 15% SP=15% EP=10%
Understanding the Educational Environment Instructional Focus & Professional Development – 12% Team Building & Staffing – 9% Stakeholder Focus – 9% IFPD= 12% TBS=9 % SF=9%
Managing Technology & Support Services Information Technology – 9% Communication Systems – 7% Business Management – 7% Data Management – 7% IT= 9% CS= 7% BM=7% DM=7%
Eligibility Requirements Bachelor’s degree Four years of ed technology experience (demonstrable experience in the three primary skill areas) Sign Code of Conduct and Terms of Confidentiality
How to Apply Create profile in CoSN Certification database Fill out and submit online exam application with payment Applications reviewed Authorization to Test (ATT) letter
CETL Certification Those who pass the test Certified Education Technology Leader CETL after their name Recertify every three years to remain certified
Recertification Requirements 60 hours of continuing education hours every three years Continuing Education E-Learning/Online Courses Industry-Related Certification Teaching/Instruction Professional Membership Published Works Volunteer/Leadership Work
Preparing for the Exam Take self-assessment Take practice exam Visit CoSN’s Knowledge Center Form a study group Identify a mentor
Prep Materials Become a Highly Capable School System Technology Leader CoSN's Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) Certification Program Preparation Materials
Why is Certification Desirable? Demonstrates that you’ve mastered the knowledge needed to be a successful CTO and, through recertification, that you will remain current with this ever-changing field.
Achieving Certification Will Validate your knowledge of the field Set you apart from peers Demonstrate to your staff that you are dedicated to your career Instill confidence in your superiors
Hiring CETLs Will Demonstrate to stakeholders your commitment to the highest standards in your administration Show employees your commitment to their professional growth
Hiring CETLs Will Help you hire or promote only the most skilled and knowledgeable education technology leaders Help you match the skills of your technology team to the job requirements of those positions
Next Steps Study Groups Future Administrations Host a Test in Your Area
Gayle Dahlman Director, Certification & Education Consortium for School Networking Ask Gayle Questions