There is a difference between technology use and technology integration. Technology use is simply using technology like computers, phones, or tablets, while technology integration incorporates technology into daily classroom routines and lessons to actively engage students. When technology is integrated, students use tools like interactive whiteboards, digital cameras, or response systems to explore topics independently and think critically rather than just listening passively. Technology integration leaves a lasting impression on students and allows them to develop technology skills that will be important for their future.

1. Technology Use vs. Technology Integration By: Amanda Benson

2. What is Technology use? Technology use is the active involvement in the use of different types of technology available. Examples include: computers, projectors, cell phones, notebooks, and a simple thing such as a TIVO. Technology is extremely broad. Technology is used by everyone, every single day. Technology is growing everyday and society is becoming more knowledgeable everyday.

3. What is Technology Integration? Technology integration, as defined by the National Forum on Education Statistics (2005), Forum Unified Education Technology Suite , "is the incorporation of technology resources and technology-based practices into the daily routines, work, and management of schools" Practices include collaborative work and communication, Internet-based research, remote access to instrumentation, network-based transmission and retrieval of data, and other methods. Technology integration is the use of technology by the teacher in a classroom to actively engage the students in what is being taught. Deubel, P. (August 7, 2007). Technology integration: Essential questions [Online]. Retrieved [January 28, 2008] from Computing Technology for Math Excellence http://www.ct4me.net/technology_integr.htm

4. Why you SHOULD integrate technology! Technology actively engages the students in the task at hand. It allows students to explore things for themselves, rather than sitting back and listening to facts. When technology is used, it leaves a lasting impression. It allows students to have a sense of responsibility and a sense of being independent. It allows students to engage in critical thinking. In our world today, technology is taking over and it is important to allow children to become aware of it and get as much practice with technology as possible.

5. Examples of Technology Use (my personal favorites) Digital Cameras – allows students to engage in picture taking. CPS (Classroom Performance System) – students can respond using a wireless pad, like a remote control Google Earth (internet) - internet tool used to show maps, satellite images, terrain and 3D images of the world’s geographic system Interactive Whiteboard - provide a way for teacher to explain information to the class in a way that it can be visualized like a computer screen or desktop by a connection between a computer and a projector

6. Is there a difference? There are many ways that can be looked at to see that there is a difference between the two. Think about different types of technology and think about it!

7. Examples of Differences Examples: -technology use can involve just using a computer for non-meaningful games -technology integration can involve using a computer for research on a project for school or a certain activity, even games for learning purposes -technology integration involves the engagement of the children. They stay actively involved in the hand at task, such as using CPS. They are constantly aware of what is going on and are able to work on things for themselves. -technology use may be using a cell phone everyday, or working a remote control car. Technology integration in the classroom involves learning in the classroom everyday. Technology use involves using a technological product for things other than learning purposes.

8. You decide! CPS-Classroom Performance System (as seen on right) Technology integration or Technology use? http://www.tri-center.k12.ia.us/cpssystem05/cps3.JPG Cell Phones (as seen on right) Technology integration or Technology use? http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/914722/2/istockphoto_914722_little_girl_using_cell_phone.jpg