John Thompson—Computer Science Representative

Dr. Thompson is an assistant professor in the Computer Information Systems Department at Buffalo State College and coordinates its graduate Educational Computing Program.

His computer experiences stretch back 20+ years. During his K–12 career, he oversaw the introduction and upgrade of computer technology in several school districts. Prior to his current work in higher education in a graduate program in educational technology, he directed a computer training facility for corporate clients at another institution. Apart from his work in higher education, Dr. Thompson has enjoyed a wide-ranging K–12 career including being a school superintendent, principal, curriculum coordinator and special education, elementary and secondary classroom teacher in urban, suburban and rural school districts. He has also held positions in the government and private sectors.

Dr. Thompson earned his B.A. from Binghamton University. His M.A. is in education from the University of Rochester. He earned his Ph.D. in Education Administration from the University at Buffalo. His doctoral dissertation researched correlations between adult education principles and writers of computer documentation.

Dr. Thompson believes that he can make a contribution to ISTE and its membership, based on his previous and current experiences. He hopes to use those experiences to assist in furthering the mission of ISTE and to improve the use of computer technology in all ISTE constituencies. Technology in education is a great learning, teaching and administrative tool, which can make a significant difference in helping students, teachers and administrators. He will strive to help ISTE to continue its active leadership role in information technology.