Integrating Technology From Ch. 1 Into The Curriculum

The options available to an individual regarding the implementation of technology within the classroom are virtually limitless. For starters, one can use a computer, probably a laptop or a PC, to create or find leson plans. Additionally, the internet is a powerful tool when used properly. It is a resource many students are already adept at using. In the 21st century, media and technology has exploded in scope and ability. Mediums such as Facebook, blogging, movie production, and Itunes are all examples of things innovative and creative teachers utilize on a daily basis to enhance student learning. John M. Keller pointed out that students must first be motivated to learn before they can begin to seek knowledge and understanding. Teachers who recognize this principle, and who also recognize students in the current era as digital students, can use new technology in ways that entice students to learn and grow. Specifically, I plan on teaching math or language arts. I plan to use computers a lot for working with geometry and shapes in order to give students more concrete experiences. For Language Arts, computers are wonderful tools to read material created by others, as well as synthesizing personal works.  Lastly, technology is important in that it links all members within a school or a district and opens channels for collaboration. In short, technology is a wonderful tool when properly harnessed.

Technology in the Classroom

Technology is growing into one of the single-most important tools in the classroom. Teachers who are proficient at encompassing new technology into lesson plans better prepare students for real life application of the ideas and concepts learned in the classroom. From my personal experiences as a student, technology that is harnessed for the purpose of instruction benefits all students. My school district invested in Smartboards when I entered high school. The Smartboards were quite useful for the plethora of subjects and topics covered in the high school curriculum. Now that I am studying to become an educator myself, I can reflect on the benefits of interacting with Smartboards previously in my formal education. I expect technology, such as the Smartboard, to continue to grow and develop. New ideas evolve at an alarming rate. This type of rapid development is beneficial because new advances in technology come about daily. This rapid development allows creative individuals the opportunity to harness their ideas for the benefit of the entire body of technology users. However, teachers must put in the work necessary to stay current with new developments in technology. The demand of extra time and effort to stay up to date is one of the biggest pitfalls of rapidly developing technology, especially for teachers due to the intense time demands of being an effective teacher. In conclusion, technology is a wonderful tool when it is used appropriately, and can serve to increase the efficacy of teachers who know how to utilize it.