Technology Integration Philosophy

Preparing students for the 21st century requires the use of technology in the classroom.  As members of Generation Z, students are already immersed in technology, which is the medium in which they are accustomed to learning.  If they are not exposed to an education that utilizes technology, how can they be expected to thrive throughout their educational experience?  Many students that I work with tell me that they could do a better, more efficient job completing their assignments if they were allowed to use their computer.  I agree.  Classroom teachers, whether proficient in the art of technology integration or not, should be utilizing technology to make their classrooms a more interactive, supportive, and 21st century experience.  Students currently in school are preparing for careers in fields that have not been thought of or created.  These jobs require the use of technology, creative thinking, and problem solving skills.  How are teachers preparing students for success if they are not utilizing the advances that technology allows?  As a special education teacher, technology helps to engage, improve weak areas of learning, and differentiate instruction.  Schools have become so diverse, from learning styles and abilities to cultural and social factors, that teachers need to create meaningful learning experiences that are beneficial and accessible to all learners.  Technology is a vehicle to universal design.  


My philosophy that schools need to harness the world's increasing technological innovations is obvious, however I understand that there are currently limitations that thwart school district's abilities to fully immerse students in technology and integrate it into the classrooms.  While technology brings great gifts, I have seen how some schools struggle because they do not have the infrastructure and resources to allow for better access.  The frustrations felt by teachers due to inadequate infrastructure can increase resistance to technology, especially for those with limited exposure and experience with it.  Overall, I feel that there should be a dramatic shift that fully immerses students in an education for the 21st century.