Technology+Essay

===Effective educators are continually searching for new methods of instruction to implement in the classroom to better meet the needs of students. Helping students make real-world connections in a project-based curriculum can be a challenge, however, the continual development of technology has created a dynamic new instructional approach. Technology can be used in the classroom to plan for lessons, to teach concepts, for student practice opportunities and for assessing student learning.===

===In planning instruction, teachers have a wide variety of information available on the Internet to deliver curriculum. Full lesson plans, thematic units, crafts and other project ideas are close at hand. From this resource the teacher is able to plan lessons to meet the needs of all students.===

===Lesson delivery can be a challenge as teachers strive to differentiate instruction. Technology is a great means of relaying information to the students, as well as providing students the chance to practice and master new skills in the classroom. Teachers can develop or download SMARTboard or interactive white board lessons to introduce, practice and review a concept. By using the SMARTboard, the students are able to interact meaningfully during the lesson while having fun. Curriculum can also be delivered and practiced through informational videos and podcasts via Discovery Education and iTunes. Internet conferencing with other schools or professionals, Webquests, Power Point presentations, presentations made through Kidspiration, and other various educational CD’s and DVD’s are all technology avenues through which students can be actively engaged to optimize learning.===

===Over many years, student assessment for the mastery of a skill has changed drastically. Teachers no longer assess students solely with paper and pencil tests but now use authentic, project-based assessments. Students are now able to show their mastery of a skill by developing podcasts, videos, movies, etc. Teachers are also able to administer assessments with technology by developing a test through the use of SMART technology interactive response systems, web quests and Google documents.===

===Effective integration of technology into quality curriculum is achieved when students are able to select technology tools to help them obtain information in a timely manner, analyze and synthesize the information, and present it appropriately. Students are able to own their learning, which increases motivation and instills a sense of independence, pride and accomplishment.===

===In the world in which we live, it is necessary for technology to be integrated across all areas of the instructional process and curriculum. It is a powerful and relevant way for students to express their creativity and knowledge. Using technology in the classroom allows the teacher to plan for, assess and ultimately address the needs of all students in the classroom. Integrating technology in the classroom is essential to providing opportunities for all students to achieve their maximum potential.===