Session 3

Question: Can technology integration in American classrooms adequately or correctly be expressed as a hierarchy? Why or why not?

Yes, definitely yes. In today's classrooms it is very rare to see technology being used on a regular basis throughout the day. At my site, and as well as many others, it has been a norm to allow students to use computers as a reward. I know I have been guilty of it in the past. I know several teachers who only use their computers as a tool to communicate via school email, and very few who actually use it for a grading system. For the most part it seems that many teachers are still stuck in the habit of only using their computers as a tool. In the more advanced classes, or classes with teachers who have a little more knowledge of computer technology, you will find that some computers are being used as a non integrated use for a student tools such as in accelerated math or accelerated reading, where the students are only using the computers to take test or to scan answer keys. I would like to think that I have surpassed these levels of hierarchy and integrate the use of technology not only for me, but also that my students are actively engage with technology. I find myself trying everyday to have students on the computer whether it is for researching or for typing. I have a LCD projector in my classroom, which i use every day. Whether if is for brain pop or just googling information on line. I think the exposure is essential. I feel it is important to train our students to become familiar with computer technology. After all it is the way of the future.