Should teachers always use the latest tech tools, or does that approach result in technology overkill?

In my experience as a teacher using technology in the classroom, I believe it is only beneficial if the teacher wants it and is willing to try something new. If the use of technology is pushed onto someone, they are more reluctant to utilize it to the fullest potential. Teachers have to have the "want" to try something new, and be excited about it. As we have all experienced, when we are excited about something, we are sure to use it.

I think the the intentions are good to supply classrooms with the latest technology, but in order for it to be used effectively, the teacher needs to be ready for the change.

In my position as technology integrator and instructor to teachers, I am witnessing a lack of confidence among some of the teachers. They seem threatened by technology or the fact that their students may know more or feel more comfortable with using technology than they do. Teachers need to understand that we are competing with so much more than our students going home and watching television instead of completing their homework or studying. We must capture our student's attention using the most innovative ways possible.

Some teachers are very negative and feel that learning about technology is just one more thing that they do not have time to be bothered with worrying about. I often give mini-lessons involving technology during teacher planning time. This really disturbs some teachers that their planning time is being “used up” by professional development sessions. When I obtain negative comments directed towards me, I explain to the teachers that integrating technology is a federal and statewide initiative that the teachers are required to do.

Currently, if a teacher utilizes my services once and refuses another time, I do not assist them for the rest of the year. I would like to change this because even if the teacher does not want to integrate technology, the students should still get the same opportunities that other classes do. I would like to transform those few negative attitudes and help teachers to understand that we are all in education for the students. We as teachers must make time in order to learn the in's and out's of the most innovative technological advancements to maintain exciting and beneficial learning. Technology only enhances lessons even more to really assist the student in truly understanding the concepts taught. A professional should be willing to take risks and try new things, and thus avoid falling into a rut and becoming stagnant (Kramer, 2003).

Technology should only enhance curriculum. The problem I see as a technology teacher, is that we are not training our teachers to integrate technology effectively. Technology becomes "just one more thing I have to do" (teacher comment) Adding each latest and greatest technological devise just heightens the already existng stress levels of most teachers. Teachers are already over-burdened with NCLB and meeting AYP. Technology is (in most classrooms I see) taking a back seat to standardized testing.

I am struggling to get teachers to conquer word processing, spreadsheets and file management. There is a willingness to learn, but time is always the issue.

Having the latest and greatest technological devises also requires money and tech support, which seems to be a problem in many schools...including mine.

If all the nifty technology out there is used just because it's there, yes, we're overloaded. If it's used with intent and purpose and an integral part of lessons, no.

Probably not many of you remember when 'technology' meant a blackboard and different colors of chalk. I do. The students found it fun and paid more attention to the designs with colored chalk.

The tools that we have now enhance our teaching so much and improve the student's learning process. We as teachers just need to learn how to use them wisely. --Just because a new Principal is thrilled with SmartBoards doesn't mean you have to use them. On the other hand, why not learn how and use them if they're appropriate?

Sandra Sanders

Plenty of "old" tech tools still work - word processing can be done on older computers using older software. Sometimes we need fast computers with new software but few teachers take advantage of the latest and greatest - they still use basic technology tools most of the time.

Yes, Educators should provide students with the latest technology. Both lecture and technology are very important to our students. The more they learn, the better their skills and experiences,the better prepare they are for college and employment.

I would like to comment to the educator that who commented "Lecture is still an efective form of teaching." I have found that using technology enhances my teaching. My students will pay more attention to me when I use pictures, etc.