Summary of Readings

According to Cuban, Kirkpatrick, and Peck (2001), students are not using all of the technological equipment that are in their schools. The reason for this is that teachers are not integrating technology in their lessons.  It may also be due to the fact that the technology that is offered in the school may be outdated, or there is not enough supply for every student. Although students of today have used the most technology than any other generation, the use of technology in schools is not as much as it should be. This is due to the lack of teachers’ knowledge of how to integrate technology into the curriculum.

Lack of teacher training or commitment, inadequate technology or technical support, structural barriers in school schedules and policies, and lack of administrative support, are the main reasons of teachers not implementing technology in the classroom. If teachers were required to attend technology professional development classes there would be more implementation of technology in the curriculum.

Integrating technology into classroom instruction means more than teaching basic computer skills and software programs in a separate computer class. Effective tech integration must happen across the curriculum in ways that research shows deepen and enhance the learning process. In particular, it must support four key components of learning: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real-world experts. Effective technology integration is achieved when the use of technology is routine and transparent and when technology supports curricular goals.

Technology also changes the way teachers teach, offering educators effective ways to reach different types of learners and assess student understanding through multiple means. It also enhances the relationship between teacher and student. When technology is effectively integrated into subject areas, teachers grow into roles of adviser, content expert, and coach. Technology helps make teaching and learning more meaningful and fun.