At one point in educational history the blackboard and paper were modern technology being integrated into the classroom.  Digital technology is now an essential component of the 21^st century classroom.  By utilizing technology teachers will enhance the learning opportunities and experiences for both student and teacher.  Technology should be used to assist in good teaching practice. When integrating technology each application is evaluated for its added value and how it helps to achieve the goals and objectives of the class.  There have been many times when I have found a ’cool’ new app or program but it does not fit in with what I am teaching.  If I am patient sometimes it will show its value and other times it will never fit with my content area.

            In todays world we are overwhelmed with information which can be daunting when looking at it as a whole.  I think as teachers, we need to focus on the solid lessons we already have planned, look at the goals and objectives and then peruse technology to see what will enhance the learning.  I teach at a privileged school where all students have a personal iPad, classroom computer carts, apple TV’s and other technologies are readily available but I would not say that the school is utilizing these to the best of their ability.   Students are required to bring these technologies to class so I am going to learn to integrate and use them to the best of my ability.

            Learning new literacies takes time, patience and interest.  Teachers are always short of time and frankly a lot of them are not interested in learning.  It is also frustrating when a technology does not work properly the first time, which provides an excuse not to use it again.  I believe that we owe it to our students to try and help them to comprehend our changing world.  How they communicate, what programs they use regularly, how they interact with the world are important for teachers to understand.  We should not be passing judgment on what is occurring but rather trying to understand so that we can better relate to our students. Teachers need to put aside their fears and embrace digital technology in their classrooms.

            Technology provides opportunities for creativity, collaborations, links between the written and visual worlds as well as opportunities for consequences.  Teachers should be embracing the changing world and exploiting the massive amounts of assistance available to achieve learning objectives.  Technology brings students together to achieve shared goals.  I hear a lot about students sitting silently with their screens but this is as far from the truth in my class.  Technology adds another valuable layer to good practice.