1. Integrating Technology: Some Things You Should Know
“Raising the Bar”
November 5, 2007
A fundamental challenge for many teachers is using computers to create innovative learning experiences for their students. During my work as an instructional technology specialist, I have found that there are four questions not raised or answered as schools begin to implement instructional technology. These questions could affect the way teachers see technology integration, use computers, and embrace the changes that occur as technology is placed in their classroom.

2. Technology Integration
Technology Integration is a term used by educators to describe effective uses of technology by teachers and students in K-12 and university classrooms. Teachers use technology to support instruction in language arts, social studies, science, math, or other content areas. When teachers integrate technology into their classroom practice, learners are empowered to be actively engaged in their learning.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

3. Technology integration is not:
Taking students to the computer lab once a week for 40 minutes
Using the computer as an electronic worksheet
Using the computer as a reward station for students who are finished with their other assignments
What is technology integration? A common misconception is that educators know the answer to this question. Teachers are often expected to integrate technology without having a working definition of the concept. Technology integration is not simply using the computer as a “tool.” This view of the computer as a tool misleads educators by implying that computer technology is like any other tool, i.e. black board or overhead, which requires little or no training or may not need to be used. Also, the concept of “computer as a tool” allows educators to continue implementing traditional, subject-based, teacher-directed lesson plans where the computer remains an “educational add-on”. In other words, technology integration is not:

4. Technology integration is:
Part of the daily activities taking place in the classroom
Supporting and extending curriculum objectives in a seamless manner
Engaging students in meaningful learning
Enabling students to demonstrate what they have learned in new and creative ways
Technology is integrated when it is part of the daily activities that take place in the classroom. It is used in a seamless manner to support and extend curriculum objectives.
The primary goal is not to use technology for the sake of using technology, but to use technology to engage students in meaningful learning and assess their understanding of a particular topic.
Technology enriches an activity and enables students to demonstrate what they learned in new and creative ways.

5. Traditional vs. Integrated
Teacher-oriented
Single-sense stimulation
Single-path progression
Single media
Isolated work
Information delivery
Passive learning
Factual, knowledge-based learning
Reactive response
Isolated, artificial content
Student-centered
Multi-sensory stimulation
Multi-path progression
Multi-media
Collaborative work
Information exchange
Active/exploratory/inquiry-based learning
Critical thinking and informed decision-making
Proactive/planned action
Authentic/real-world context

6. Support Instruction
Teaching that emphasizes active engagement helps students process and retain information. It leads to self-questioning, deeper thinking, and problem solving. 

8. Where does technology fit?
What is my objective?

9. Lesson Focus Objectives connect to prior learning Introduce a concept
Build background
Clarify vocabulary
Enhance Curiosity
Set Purpose

10. Lesson Focus United Streaming Videos KWL charts
Webs: brainstorming (Inspiration/Kidspiration)
ANY Graphic Organizer (VRML link)
Power Point (teacher made)
Website with information

11. Modeling Teacher uses Powerpoint
Whole class outlining using Microsoft Word
Using Interactive websites, teacher demonstrates how to get to the site and what to do….step-by-step.

12. Guiding
Sequencing – show steps and go through each, using highlighter in Powerpoint or Word
Create powerpoint on subject being covered leaving out key vocabulary, students respond verbally, next slide is the same with key terms highlighted

13. Guiding
Sequencing – show steps and go through each, using highlighter in Powerpoint or Word
Create powerpoint on subject being covered leaving out key vocabulary, students respond verbally, next slide is the same with key terms highlighted

14. Independent Practice Interactive Websites Writing/Publishing
Student Created Powerpoint
Trackstar
United Streaming writing prompts

15. Differentiated Instruction
Teacher incorporates varied activities and materials to address the range of cognitive abilities and different learning styles
Teacher uses visual props and cues to enhance student learning

16. Differentiated Instruction
Cognitive Abilities
Ability to comprehend information at various levels
Gifted & Talented
Average
At –Risk Learner
Mental Disability
Learning Styles
Primary mode of
learning
Visual
Auditory
Kinesthetic
Tactile

17. Using Technology for Differentiated Instruction
United Streaming
Text to Speech Tools
Magnifier
Use activities from lower grade level for at-risk and from higher grade level for talented and gifted.
Have students create and present powerpoints.

18. Using Technology for Differentiated Instruction
Use United Streaming videos to introduce, teach, and review or re-teach a concept and complete the quizzes.
CAST – Teaching Every Student!

19. Small Group/Flexible Group
Students are engaged in meaningful activities
Games
Activities
Research
Projects
Real World
Simulations
Communication
Write/Publish (Blogs and Wikis)
Presentations (PowerPoint)
Multi-media Correspondence
( , Podcast, Vodcast)

20. Student Engagement
Content is appropriate and linked to students’ knowledge and experience
Students actively involved in activities and assignments
Re-teach
Practice
Extend/Enrich Learning
Connect to Lesson focus
And cognitive abilities

21. Environment
Classroom design is conducive to varied learning opportunities
Resource materials are accessible
Technology is incorporated
Display student work

22. Technology Integration ….
Is a growth process.
Takes time!
Is “Raising the Bar!!!”