Why use Technology in the Classroom?

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Technology in the classroom

Since the beginning of the American Republic, technology has played an important role in the growth of this nation. Transportation and communication are two areas that continually see gains in technological advancements. Railroad, automobiles and aircraft are a few examples of the changes in American transportation. Telegraph, telephone, and now satellite powered cell phones link people from coast to coast. These older examples of technology, pale in comparison to the current information revolution. The information revolution is the single most important event in the last century.

Today, many heated discussions revolve around the value of technology in secondary education. Increasingly, everyone in the education community discusses the technology relevance. When students, teachers, parents, and politicians consider the role of technology in the classroom, more questions are raised than answered. Many believe that education needs a "back to basics" approach. They point to low achievement scores on standardized tests. Others think technology is a panacea that will cure the ills of public education. They believe that students given a computer and learning software program can teach themselves. Technology is an effective educational tool. This tool can assist students and teachers to learn and function effectively in the information age. Information technology is improving what and how we learn.

Integration of all new forms of technology is no longer an option for just elite, privileged, or well-funded schools. Implementing a well-planned technology program in secondary education can help students achieve academic success. Before success can be realized, several issues need attention. Schools need current and up to date hardware and software. Students, teachers, and parents need to understand district acceptable use policies. In addition, basic Internet training for students should be combined with relevant web based learning modules (WebQuests). Implementing these strategies will insure that students and teachers can effectively use information technology in and out of the classroom.

A successful technology program starts at the district level. The district superintendent and individual school principles are essential to promoting effective technology in the classroom. They provide the leadership and financial support needed to maintain an effective technology programs. Computer equipment in schools should be state of the art. This means that software and hardware is up to date and current. In addition to state of the art equipment, each school campus should have a full time computer coordinator. This position provides a focal point and ensures that each school stays current with changes that occur in computer and Internet technology. Once the district technology infrastructure is established, policies can provide guidelines and protection for individual schools.

At individual schools, teachers should present, instruct, and outline acceptable use policies (AUP). AUP's are the school districts guidelines on proper use of computers and the Internet within the school district. Understanding acceptable use of school computers and the Internet is essential. Policies should include written explanations of what is expected and required within the district. Students and parents need to understand what is acceptable use and what is not. In addition to acceptable use policies, students need a complete understanding of how to use this exciting new technology in the classroom. Students need comprehensive basic training that integrates technology directly into the classroom and lesson plans.

Effective technology training is no longer an option for K-12 students. School aged children should begin effective technology training from the earliest age possible. This requires parents and teachers to plan, implement, and work together creating a useful technology curriculum. Students need effective technology based curriculums to function in today's world and workplace. Using web based learning modules combines the power of the Internet and student natural affinity for computers. "WebQuests" are Internet based online lessons that focus the power of the Internet on a single subject area. These lessons can take a few day or several weeks to complete. References, instructions, rubrics, and Internet resources are all contained within this lesson framework. WebQuest activities combine powerful resources to produce a focused, comprehensive lesson.

Classroom advances today have occurred primarily as a result of information technology. Information technology is the broad category that directly utilizes computers, the Internet, and new communication styles. Today's students are faced with seemingly unlimited technological choices and opportunities. Just as with other advances in education, it the responsibility of parents and teachers to educate, instruct, and train today's students to fully use this exciting and powerful technology. Technology skills learned by elementary and secondary students will pay dividends throughout their adult life.