Setting reasonable and realistic goals that are linked to the school’s educational goals and curricular standards is a critical first step toward establishing a solid coaching relationship and helping teachers integrate information and communication technology into their classroom activities.

Coaching tools for this activity include visual tools to help teachers connect technology school improvement plans and classroom instruction. Other tools include examples of using technology to improve academic achievement, such as those found at Microsoft’s Innovative Teachers Web site. Planning tools and templates used in various activities also help teachers connect plans and examples to classroom instruction. In learning how to set goals, participants "find a hook", and locate a resource that another teacher they hope to collaborate with could use in her or his classroom activities.