2. When did it get started? The integration of technology began many years ago with computers much like the one below. Integrating Technology into the classroom: Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009
3. Some research shows that there are no significant differences in student achievement levels after technology integration. Some research shows that there are significant positive differences. Therefore, the research is still inconclusive. "Through the use of advanced computing and telecommunications technology, learning can also be qualitatively different. The process of learning in the classroom can become significantly richer as students have access to new and different types of information, can manipulate it on the computer through graphic displays or controlled experiments in ways never before possible, and can communicate their results and conclusions in a variety of media to their teacher, students in the next classroom, or students around the world. For example, using technology, students can collect and graph real-time weather, environmental, and populations data from their community, use that data to create color maps and graphs, and then compare these maps to others created by students in other communities. Similarly, instead of reading about the human circulatory system and seeing textbook pictures depicting bloodflow, students can use technology to see blood moving through veins and arteries, watch the process of oxygen entering the bloodstream, and experiment to understand the effects of increased pulse or cholesterol-filled arteries on blood flow." Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009 Does it actually make a difference in achievement levels?
4. Why do some teachers use technology in the classroom? Laptops are excellent for peer teaching opportunities. Students like it, teachers like it. This makes learning more interesting for all involved. In many schools, teachers are required to implement technology in a variety of ways. Brilliant teachers have experienced the empowering power of technology themselves. Brilliant teachers use good assessment strategies to rigorously determine the quality of technology-enhanced projects. Teachers who receive lots of encouragement, support, incentives, and available resources usually deliver quality-technology-enriched lessons. Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009
5. Many teachers are still reluctant to use technology, of mostly because of a lack time, a lack of resources, or a lack of confidence in their ability to use the available technology. Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009 Why some teachers do not use technology in the classroom
6. I believe that the use of technology is essential and conducive to an effective learning environment. Here is an example of how I use technology in my elementary classroom. Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009 What do I think about the issue?
7. Rising scores on state tests Improved student attendance Increased student comprehension Motivation Attitude Strong study Parent and teacher support Improved student retention Improved placement in jobs Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009 How Does Technology Enhance Student Achievement? Con’t
8. Basic Skills Instruction Computer assisted instruction to drill Multi-media software - teach to a variety of learning styles Videodiscs - strengthen basic skills Video and audio technologies - bring material to life Distance learning - at least as effective as traditional methods of instruction All forms - develop new skills related to use of technology itself, necessary in workplace Cynthia Simmons Sept. 30, 2009 How Does Technology Enhance Student Achievement?