Technology Integration

It is amazing to me that many teachers still think “TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION” is time students spend on the computer using software. Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of great software out there that engages the learner, however, pushing the arrow keys, number keys, and/or A>B>C>D keys is not the real world.
Too many times, teachers confuse technology education and instructional/ educational technology. Teachers must understand that technology education is a distinct discipline that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to function in a technological society. Instructional or educational technology is a strategy for using different forms of technology (such as computers) to aid or enhance educational instruction and promote creativity. It is not a discipline. Classroom technology is a supplement to teacher instruction, not a replacement. Computer based instruction can individualize student learning and provide instant feedback and in some cases provide students with a written explanation and a visual aid. Computers are also patient and non-judgmental which allows motivating students to continue.
Technology Integration (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) is a term used by educators to describe effective uses of technology by teachers and students in K-12 and university classrooms. Teachers use technology to support instruction in language arts, social studies, science, math, or other content areas. When teachers integrate technology into their classroom practice, learners are empowered to be actively engaged in their learning.
When technology is integrated into the classroom, educators are taking the constructivist approach to learning. Students are becoming the experts while the classroom environment is shifting from teacher-centered to student-centered. An educator who is not supporting student learning by integrating technology in the classroom is causing a disservice to students and the work force that awaits them.
Teachers should strive to make technology a part of everyday life in the classroom. They should not use technology just to use it. They should find ways to use it so that it enhances instruction and improves student learning. The focus of technology integration activities should not be on the technology that is used, but on the student activities that are conducted using technology.
Technology integration does not happen by accident. Teachers must learn how to incorporate student use of technology into meaningful activities in their lesson plans. There is a learning curve to becoming proficient in technology integration, but once the skills are learned and activities are identified and located or developed, teachers find that technology can actually reduce preparation time.