Why Integrate Technology in the Curriculum? The Reasons are Many?

In this article the author discusses the importance of building technology across all levels of curriculum as opposed to how some schools may be set up where they teach like a computer technology course, but do not incorporate it into other classes. The technology in the classroom must his on four key components of learning: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real work experts.

Using technology in the classroom can allow students to not only be engaged in products, but in can also give them a glimpse of what it looks like to work in a modern day office. Using technology in the classroom the students can build on their problem solving skills individually or in teams. They can also use online information and synthesize and process the information.

With all the online information the classroom can become more interesting, diverse, and current. Students can connect to online experts and can be more engaged in the classroom. Technology also changes the way we teach. It gives teachers the opportunity to reach students in different ways. When integrated correctly technology can allow the teacher to to move into the role of a coach, adviser. Technology can make teaching more interesting and fun for the teacher as well.

After reading this article it has made me think about technology use in the classroom. It made me think how helpful it can be to both the teacher and the student when used correctly. It can engaged students and make learning more applicable to the students. However, we cannot use technology and not be active with it. We need to make sure we are using it to help us connect with the students and not just to make our jobs easier. We need to stay engaged as the teacher even though our role will slightly change. I want to start thinking about all the times I use technology and make sure it relates to the four components listed at the top of this post: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real work experts.

http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction