Instructional Technologies

Program Overview

Instructional technology in Iowa’s educational landscape involves integrating digital tools and resources to enhance teaching and learning processes. Educators use a variety of technologies to support and enrich the educational experience for students, making learning more engaging, interactive and effective. Here is an overview of how Heartland AEA partners with educators around key aspects of instructional technology. One thing is for certain — our team is here to assist you with any of these areas!

Areas of Support

Digital Learning Platforms

Learning Management Systems (LMS): Tools like Canvas and Google Classroom, help educators manage coursework, distribute assignments, facilitate discussions and track student progress. Educational apps and software allow for interactive learning and student engagement. 

Digital Resources & Content

Access to online libraries, databases and digital textbooks broadens the scope of available teaching materials, providing up-to-date and diverse content for students. Check out the offerings in our digital resource library.

Student Devices

One-to-one device programs (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads) ensure that each student has access to a personal digital device for learning, research and collaboration. 

Professional Learning for Educators

Ongoing training and support for teachers is crucial for the effective integration of technology. Workshops, webinars and instructional coaching help educators stay current with the latest tools and best practices. 

More About Instructional Technology Coaching

Assessment & Data Analytics

Digital tools for formative and summative assessments provide immediate feedback, helping educators to tailor instruction to meet individual student needs. Data analytics tools help in tracking student performance and identifying areas for improvement. 

Collaboration & Communication Tools

Platforms like Zoom facilitate virtual meetings, parent-teacher conferences and student collaborations, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering a collaborative learning environment. 

Digital Citizenship

Instructional technology programs emphasize the importance of teaching students to use technology responsibly and ethically, promoting safe and respectful online behavior. 

Important Contacts

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Amy Wichman

Amy Wichman

  • Director of Media, Technology & Digital Learning

Education: Bachelor’s degree, English, political science and secondary education; Master’s degree, education administration

Experience: Extensive experience in teaching & administration; Regional director; Director of instructional services; Director of media, technology & digital learning
Joined Heartland AEA in 2016

Expertise: Authentic technology integration/EdTech; implementing innovation; adult learning; standards-based grading, systems change

Professional affiliations: TCEA, ATD, ISTE, ISTE Certified, Scrum Master, vCISO

How I’ve made an impact: I assisted with a comprehensive implementation of technology with students that included goal setting, benchmarks and specific outcomes for annual reporting to the district’s school board. A multi-year action plan included tracking student/parent/teacher feedback, implementation planning, professional learning and data collection to track evidence of progress and update goals. Over three years we increased technology integration and ultimately test scores.

Instructional Technologies