Office of Curriculum, Technology, & Assessment

Title II, Part D - Request for Proposal

21^st Century skills and tools information

South Dakota is a partner with many other states in the new nationwide effort to increase 21^st Century skills through the use of 21^st Century tools.  To learn more regarding this partnership visit this website: http://www.21stcenturyskills.org/

Levels of Technology Integration

Understanding the levels on technology integration can help assist in determining what the projects goals are going to be for professional development. This link provides information regarding each level http://www.drchrismoersch.com/loti.html.

Types of Data Sources

Collection and triangulating the right data that is accurate and specific can greatly improve the ability to determine need for a project/ or intervention. This download provides information regarding different types of data elements. Word| PDF

Research Correlation Source Examples

Project activities should be aligned to research and best practice. The proposed project should be based on and correlated to proven research. 

The two research references listed below might be used in the application to substantiate the chosen activities and direction of the project.  Cited research should be included in the written grant and not merely listed at the end of the proposal.  However, if citing research such as the examples below within the proposal then, please list the full documentation of the citation at the end of the proposal.

• Example 1:

  • “A growing body of academic research supports the use of project-based learning in schools as a way to engage students, reduce absenteeism, boost cooperative learning skills, and improve test scores. Those benefits are enhanced when technology is used in a meaningful way in the projects” (Thomas, 2000).  

• Example 2:

  • One of the most important writers on Experiential Education was John Dewey, an American educator and philosopher who wrote Experience and Education in 1938. Dewey wrote, “Experience happens; it is unavoidable. The problem for teachers and students is how to make meaning out of our experience.” Dewey believed that knowledge is not so much a „given‟ as it is a „creation‟ and that it is “individually and communally constructed by people…” as they engage in and…”reflect on the world around them” (Foundations of Experiential Education, NSEE, 1998). What John Dewey theorized in 1938 stills true today, learning should not only prepare one for life, but should also be an integral part of life itself. Simulating real problems and real problem-solving is one function of project based learning. This 21^st Century professional development project will assist educators in utilizing 21^st Century tools to create authentic learning experiences for their students.