Technology in the Classroom

"Given the realities of our modern age and the demands of our children's future, is it really ok to allow teachers to choose whether or not they incorporate modern technologies into their instruction?"



Teachers should be incorporating modern technologies into their instruction, as long as they are knowledgable and comfortable with the technology they plan to use. I believe that teachers should be required to take classes or attend seminars to inform them of the advancing technology and how to properly use the material.

In a high school, teachers should be up to date on the technology they are using. This does not mean that they should resort to their comfort zone of using only powerpoints and overheads, however. Teachers should work with the technology department at their school and attend conferences outside of the classroom to learn up on the new technologies.

For instance, my AP Calculus teacher researched and applied for a grant that would allow him to use a SmartBoard as part of a test trial. After the trial, he was allowed to keep the SmartBoard, free of charge. This board was incredibly helpful in fully understanding the 3D aspects of Calculus, which Mr. Murray knew ahead of time and worked so hard to have one in the classroom.

All teachers should be choosing to incorporate knew technology in the classroom. I feel that if a teacher is not comfortable with the technology they have, they should get the help they need to understand how to use it as opposed to sticking with their comfort zone.

Therefore I feel that teachers should not be able to choose whether or not to use technology in the classroom. Teachers should want to incorporate modern technologies into lessons and be fully aware of the capabilities of the technologies they are using.