CITES Framework Development Process

One goal of the CITES project is to build the capacity of districts to develop, implement, and refine comprehensive, equitable technology ecosystems that include AT, EdTech and InfoTech. We are achieving that goal by developing the CITES Framework, a tool that can be used by any LEA across the country. An early, strategic decision by CITES was to use the National Education Technology Plan (NETP) as a foundation and starting point from which to launch the CITES Framework. UDL, AT, and accessibility are included in the NETP, the work clarifies and expands those concepts. The CITES Framework provides guidance on how these related concepts and tools can lead to a balanced, inclusive technology ecosystem. Led by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Education Technology, the NETP represents a national consensus on the role of technology in education. The 2020 update of the NETP is currently in progress. Jose Blackorby, Director of Research at CAST and inaugural Co-PI of CITES is on the Technical Working Group for the update. His participation offers us a way to ensure the ongoing alignment of the goals of CITES and the 2020 NETP.

Framework Development Districts

Framework Development Districts have a long-term commitment with CITES to try out evidence-based practices and provide cyclical feedback on what works to build an inclusive technology ecosystem to inform the development of the CITES Framework.

Research and Knowledge Development

Evidence-based and promising practices identified through our research literature scans and Knowledge Development interviews with districts that serve as exemplars in one or more areas of inclusive technology implementation are helping to inform the development of the CITES Framework.