It is universally acknowledged that technology is a rapidly changing reality that appears to have no limits and requires that we continually expand our horizons. The rapid increase in technology and media guarantees that every strategic plan striving to maintain a current approach to these challenges is outdated the minute the plan is committed to paper. There is an ever-expanding chasm between the universal need for the most updated technology and media equipment, people who are skilled and competent in the use of that equipment, and the resources necessary to provide those needs. It is a safe assumption to make in saying that whatever needs MBU currently has in the area of media and technology is merely a drop in an ocean of technological possibility. Our overall and most realistic goal is to maintain a steady course of improvement and acquisition of equipment, supplies, and resources to prepare teachers to integrate technology into their classroom instruction strategies. An adjunct to this goal is an expectation that all faculty will expand their own understanding of technology for teaching and learning and will integrate technology into their courses in ways that are appropriate to the methods of inquiry used in their discipline and to the learning needs of their students.

It is the goal and intention of the Education Division that technology will be fully integrated into all coursework and field experiences for education, leadership, and counseling students. MBU students are introduced to technology in their general education coursework and further refine their technological skills in EDUC 373, Technology and Instructional Media, a class required of all elementary and middle school education majors. The education faculty build on this knowledge with assignments requiring students to demonstrate their competency in technology. One graduation requirement is that students’ competency in use of technology in curriculum and instruction be documented with artifacts that are included in their summative portfolios. EDUC 573, Application of Technology as an Effective Tool in Teaching, is a required graduate-level course for students pursuing a Masters level education. Classroom teaching, administration, and counseling students must show that they can use technology in their professional practice to enhance the performance of their duties and responsibilities as well as the performance of their students/clientele.