Technology Integration

The underlying principle by which I stand is the belief that technology is a tool

— a tool that can help us learn.

Understandings:

1. The integration of technology in schools is not about the tool itself, but rather about how teaching and learning can be enhanced and supported by it. The selected technologies should become a natural element in and out of the class. In order to become efficient technology users, students and teachers alike need to be trained in the proper use of it and avoid spending valuable instructional time dealing with the technical aspects of the tool.

2. In order to achieve a successful learning experience teachers need to be knowledgeable in the content they are teaching, in the instructional strategies used to deliver the lesson, and in the use of the technology they will incorporate. A model that encompasses this belief is the TPACK framework. In which Knowledge of Pedagogy, Technology, and Content come together.

3. A minimum set of criteria needs to be determined. I believe the ISTE standards for Teachers and the ISTE Standards for Students provide an excellent framework that includes 21st century skills as well as digital citizenship expectations.

4. The impact of technology in teaching and learning should be measured to determine next steps to take in regards to teacher support, professional development, and overall success of the program. I believe resources such as Puentedura’s SAMR model and the Technology Integration Matrix offer a means to determine the level and quality of technology integration taking place in the educational environment.