Integrating Technology

Technology Integration is the addition of technology in the classroom to effectively support instruction. Technology in the classroom is not just computers; it includes the Internet, word processing software, interactive SMART boards, calculators, television, and so many other things.

Good technology integration could be any form of technology that allows students to actively engage in their learning. Students could research online material for a school project or report, and have access to many more resources than the school library could provide. Students could create a presentation using PowerPoint or a video camera. Technology is making our world more accessible. This past month 30 schools in the United States have gotten the opportunity to speak ‘live’ with the Astronauts at the International Space Station. What an experience for these students to have; one you don’t get from reading about in books. Technology made this happen and it has more than likely encouraged and inspired many children in the world of science.

Technology integration can hinder students learning when it is not effectively applied. Allowing students to ‘surf the net’ with no guidance could lead to student frustration and chaos in the classroom. The teacher must be prepared to incorporate the technology in a way that benefits the students learning.

There are some barriers to technology integration. Technology is ever changing, that’s what technology is, a progression of ideas. Constant progression can make previous ideas obsolete. Not many people still own or operate a Commodore 64, but when it first hit the market it was the computer to have. When I bought my latest computer, the very next day the company my processor was made by produced a processor that was much faster than mine. Software is constantly being upgraded and changed as well, and eventually you are forced to update because nothing is compatible anymore. My point here is that technology is a constant investment; an investment in both financial resources as well as in time. To keep updated on hardware and software programs can be expensive and time consuming because training may be needed to properly use the hardware or software. Teachers incorporating technology in their classrooms should be knowledgeable with that form of technology, and if they aren’t they should be willing to learn about it.