Integrating Technology into the Classroom discusses how the use of technology in classrooms is required by law and has several positive effects. It changes the classroom from a teacher-centered environment to a student-centered one, as students play a more active role. Technology also increases student motivation and self-esteem through immediate feedback, allows students to acquire technical skills and accomplish more complex tasks, and promotes more collaboration with peers.

1. Integrating Technology into the Classroom By Vanessa Coleman

2. Why should teachers use technology in their classrooms?Incorporating technology in to the classroom is not an option. It is required by the NCLB Act that all students in schools are competent in the area of technology by the 8th grade, regardless of background.

3. What are the effects of technology use in the classroom?

4. Change in Student and Teacher RolesThe classroom changes from ‘teacher centered’ to ‘student centered’ with the use of technology because students are playing an active role.

5. Increased Motivation and Self-Esteem Immediate feedback from technology motivates students to continue practicing academic skills. In general, the use of technology motivates students to come to school.

6. Technical SkillsStudents, even those at the elementary level, are able to acquire a great level of skill with the use of different software programs.

7. Accomplishment of More Complex TasksThe capabilities and supports provided by technology have allowed students to accomplish more complex tasks.

8. More Collaboration with PeersOne effect of working with technology is increased cooperative learning as well as peer tutoring.

9. Increased Use of Outside ResourcesA benefit of using technology is the use of outside resources within the classroom, such as satellites and phones.

10. Improved Design Skills/Attention to Audience Students are becoming more aware of the fact that there will be an audience viewing their final product. They are taking their time and acting creatively to improve the look of their work.