The ICOT is based on observation tools developed since 1998 during ISTE’s work with numerous educational technology initiatives, including the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS), Technology Innovation Challenge Grants, Preparing Tomorrow’s Teachers to Use Technology programs, and Enhancing Education Through Technology grants.

ICOT was developed by staff and consultants in the Education Leadership Department at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)with support from Hewlett-Packard Company, Educational Philanthropy.

The development team includes Dr. David Barr, ISTE Consultant and Member of the NETS Leadership Team, Dr. Katherine Hayden, Associate Professor of Educational Technology at California State University San Marcos and Member of the ISTE Standards and Accreditation Committee, Mark P. Andrews, M.Ed ISTE Educational Leadership Director of Business Development, Talbot Bielefeldt, ISTE Educational Leadership Research and Evaluation Senior Associate, and with the support of Hilary LaMonte, ISTE Consultant and President of PotomacPlanet. Numerous educators provided valuable input to drafts and revisions of the instrument.