Integrating technology into the classroom is not as simple as task as it might sound. It involves more than just inserting a computer into the classroom, and asking the class to research a topic. While this very well might be a task asked of the student; the teacher has far more to consider. Classroom integration involves such thing as the network environment, hardware and software and software tools, and how these things are used to benefit the lesson plan. Technology that is just thrown into the mix without a purpose and desired outcome can be counterproductive. This planning and understanding of the uses of technology in the classroom is what will be one of the biggest challenges in creating the best learning environment for my students.
ENVIROMENT
Technology integration begins with the hardware. Computers, projectors, laptops, tablets, whiteboards and other devices give me the tools I need to fold technology into the classroom. One of the biggest questions in this aspect is “How do I get information to the devices?”. This involves setting up a network to deliver information and the internet to the students. There are several ways to accomplish this with one using a hard wired network, and the other using a wireless network. Each has their own pros and cons that must be weighed. The hardwired network while offering a more stable environment also ties computers and peripherals to certain locations, and the required wires could become a tripping hazard. On the other hand a wireless network allows the computers and peripherals to be used around the classroom and allows for more flexibility. On the downside for the wireless environment you have a less reliable system and a little more complicated environment. I however feel that the pros of the wireless outweigh the cons. Students being able to move from a group setting to an individual setting without loss of connectivity is the main draw of a wireless environment.
CONS OF USING TECHNOLOGY
Like everything there are people who are for and against integrating technology in classroom. Cost, teacher’s ability to implement technology, and technology as a distraction are all arguments that can be made against a plan to use technology within lessons.
One of the biggest barriers to teachers supporting lessons with technology is cost. The state of Texas alone this year is looking to cut 10 billion from their education budget. How can a school district think of technology costs when teachers are being laid off? The fact is however that a little upfront money can go a long way in reducing costs. In a 2010 study it was shown that a class of 40 students can save an average of $2500 by using digital textbooks instead of traditional ones (Evans, 2010). Today tablet and netbook computers can be purchased for under $250 and textbooks $30-150 (Jefferson County Highschool, 2011). Integration of computers can be cost effective.
Teachers often have problems integrating technology because they are uncomfortable with the technology themselves (Sheingold & Hadley, 1990). Several things were pinpointed in teachers who were successful in the integration of technology. The teachers spent time learning the technology, the teachers school supported the teachers with relevant technology, and computers were used as multi-purpose tools (e.g., used for word processing and instructional software) (Sheingold & Hadley, 1990). Teachers who had problems in the successful integration usually did not have hardware provided to support them, and/or did not feel they had the time to properly learn the technology so that they could effectively teach (Sheingold & Hadley, 1990). However; every year technology becomes more and more a part of our everyday lives and because of that teachers must train in the technology relevant to our society. Every student needs to be well versed in technology to succeed in today’s times.
Technology can quickly become a distraction to the classroom and student. Without proper supervision and control a student can be looking up their favorite band instead of following along on a lesson. Computers can be become entertainment devices instead of education devices; however through proper control distracting behavior can be curtailed.
INTERGRATING TECHNOLOGY INTO MY CLASSROOM
In early childhood education there are many ways to integrate technology into the classroom that I can utilize. Computer tablets, cameras, tape recorders, and video cameras are some of the hardware I would use to support the curriculum of the classroom. These devices would be used to support early language development and math skills.
When in the early stages of development it is important for children to tie together their spoken word with written word, and technology can really together all aspects of literacy (speaking, listening, reading and writing) (Northwest Educational Technology Consortium, 2005). Tablets with interactive story books would be used. Books that act out each page as the student turns the page can draw them in. A is for apple has more meaning when the page shows more than just the letter A and an Apple. A short skit on the page showing a cartoon character eating an apple and reinforcing the concept will better involve the student in the lesson. Another way to use technology to get the child involved in their learning would be to have a student take pictures of things that begin with the letter A and then describing each item. Videoing the children act out one of their favorite books as the teacher narrates and then watching the skit as a class brings all the fundamentals of literacy together as well as keeps the children engaged with the lesson.
Early math skills can also greatly benefit from technology in much the same way as literacy skills. Technology can keep the student involved and software can really help in mathematics. Patterning, classification seriation, and calendar concepts are all aided by the use of technology (Northwest Educational Technology Consortium, 2005). A tablet and software can be used in lessons on patterning so that the child can interact with “what comes next”. Classification can be practiced by matching like items on the tablet screen and dragging like items together. As with classification a student can practice seriation by dragging objects in sequence from small to large. Calendar software can help build awareness on how time is measured.
There are an infinite number of ways for a teacher to implement technology in the daily lesson plans. The main ingredients are hardware and teacher desire to successfully complete the task. I believe I have the desire to be successful in this endeavor and continue to learn so that my students benefit from today’s technology.