Creating a Technology Infused Classroom

Teachers in the 21st Century need to make a shift from traditional ways of teaching, to classrooms that our 21st Century students are demanding. An educator’s responsibility is to prepare students for the future. Teachers must be knowledgeable about the digital age, to be able to teach effectively and ensure that students learn skills that will prepare them for college and beyond. 21st Century classrooms, must become classes that promote critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making (ISTE 2007).

Technology integration is the use of technology resources in daily classroom practices (Edutopia 2007). These resources can include computers, tablets, digital cameras, and social media networks. Technology should be used as a tool and a resource to support learning. Students have access to a variety of tools that match the task at hand and provide them the opportunity to build a deeper understanding of content (Edutopia 2007).

In a technology infused or integrated classroom, a shift takes place, where the teacher acts a learning catalyst. They become a facilitator of the activities going on in the classroom. The students. The students have become independent technology users. The teacher allows the students to use their creativity and be responsible for their learning (NAESP 2012). This shift is very difficult for traditional teachers who are used to being the focal point in the classroom.

A technology infused classroom, should promote discovery and exploration using technology on a daily basis. Every student has access to technology and it is readily available. Using technology should be second nature. It enhances learning, and is not a separate entity. Teachers are knowledgeable about the technology that is used in the classroom. Students are encouraged to collaborate with other students. All work should be meaningful and apply to real world situations.

References
www.iste.org
http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-guide-description
http://www.naesp.org/principal-januaryfebruary-2012-technology/technology-integration-new-21st-century-learner