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Plugging In With Technology

© Melissa Johnston

Never before has education been so exciting as we find ourselves in the middle of a technological whirlwind caught up in a fury of endless possibilities. Classroom walls have been torn down allowing teachers and students the freedom to explore the world around them. In this age of information, teachers can offer students opportunities for learning and enrichment that go far beyond the textbook. So what is technology? By definition it is the application of new ideas through the use of methods, materials, and equipment.

Integrating technology into the classroom is so much more than using computers as a super-charged typewriters. The goal of integration should be to join together subject-specific objectives with technology in such a way that is enhances the educational experience.

Before the process of integration can begin, it is imperative that classrooms are equipped with the appropriate technology. Integration can take place in the single-computer classroom, small station set up or lab setting. However, technology integration, like change, must come in small steps. The process can be broken down into four steps:

1. AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE: Lawmakers, administrators, teachers, parents and students accept that technology is an important and vital tool in education in the 21st century. Teachers are willing to embrace technology as an essential part of their teaching repertoire. Lawmakers and administrators are aware of the benefits and implications of using technology in schools and provide support in the form of funding and training.

2. EXPLORATION: Once the decision has been made to embrace technology, teachers and students have the job of exploring the possibilities at hand. This might include using the computer to type worksheets, tests, and reports or even recording and calculating student progress. Teachers are trying new ideas as they unfold and explore new techniques and procedures.

3. APPLICATION: More time is spent at this step than any other. Teachers are beginning to apply technology to their classroom through the use of software programs for enrichment, reteach, and drill and practice. Technology is being used on a regular basis to enhance the delivery of information to students through presentation and multimedia software and equipment. The teacher is using technology to expand the textbook and curriculum. He/she is able to make sound decisions about technology and chooses the appropriate technology to be used in teaching situations. Students are using technology to create products to show what has been learned and share information on a regular basis.

4. EVALUATION: The last step of technology integration is perhaps the most important. Here the teacher evaluates the effectiveness of technology use in the classroom and makes adjustments accordingly to ensure success. The teacher feels comfortable with technology and looks for new ways to integrate his/her classroom.

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