Where the buck stops is a good question, but ultimately, I think that there is a need for someone to be considered "the" technology leader, and in most cases, it won’t-can’t-shouldn’t be the superintendent.
I know there are many ill-conceived technology integrations across the state, as well as great ideas but implemented exactly backwards to best practices. However, there are now so many of these types of integrations that it might just be the new way of doing business. So instead of standing on the sidelines or trying to get out of the way (to avoid blame, etc.) those best positioned to understand the tech and its roll in education need to step up to the plate and provide some survival mechanisms to do the best with what the situation presents.
While I can certainly understand running from potential train wrecks, after enough crashes, one starts to wonder who is running the railroad. With all the hardware thrown at problems (whether real or perceived), the situation is begging for solutions, and solutions, as Einstein observed, will not likely come from the same minds that caused the problem in the first place.
Since it is obvious that integrations are now being launched without traditional proper planning, then we should look for the cause of this change in order to understand why it’s happening. And then look for positive solutions to make the best of the situation.
Sudden iPad integration is a country-wide phenomenon, and the push-back from instructional technologists is also a common reaction. But just as widespread is the push forward from pro-educational technology groups and organizations, let alone vendors.
Instead of fighting or blame storming, ed tech leaders need to consolidate solutions to bring out the best in what the integration can offer regardless of its flaws.
There are probably two types of school districts right now. Those that have had a sudden and loosely planned influx of iPads, and those that will have a sudden and loosely planned influx of iPads.
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