Why Do We Need Technology Integration?

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Technology is a part of children's lives. It is transparent. Many homes have computers and Internet connections. As prices of technology drop computers and other digital devices may replace television as we know it. The technologies of today bring the tools of empowerment into the hands and minds of those who use them. [1]

Now, walk into a classroom. Are there computers and if so, are they being used? How are they being used? Technology is revolutionizing the way we think, work, and play. Technology, when integrated into the curriculum, revolutionizes the learning process. More and more studies show that technology integration in the curriculum improves students' learning processes and outcomes. Teachers who recognize computers as problem-solving tools change the way they teach. They move from a behavioral approach to a more constructivist approach. Project-based learning takes place utilizing interactive multimedia and telecommunications technologies. Students are engaged in their learning using these powerful tools.

Another reason for technology integration is the necessity of today's students to have 21st Century Skills. These 21st Century Skills include:

• Personal and social responsibility
• Planning, critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity
• Strong communication skills, both for interpersonal and presentation needs
• Cross-cultural understanding
• Visualizing and decision-making
• Knowing how and when to use technology and choosing the most appropriate tool for the task

Technology helps change the student/teacher roles and relationships. It promotes project-based learning styles. It engages students in their learning processes. Students acquire and use higher-order thinking, analysis, and problem solving. They take responsibility for their learning outcomes. Teachers become guides and facilitators. Technology lends itself as the multidimensional tool that assists the process. For economically disadvantaged students, the school may be the only place where they will have the opportunity to use a computer and integrate technology into their learning.

There is a growing body of evidence that technology integration positively affects student achievement and academic performance. The Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET) [2] found that, when used in collaborative learning methods and leadership that is aimed at improving the school through technology planning, technology impacts achievement in content area learning, promotes higher-order thinking and problem solving skills, and prepares students for the workforce. Look at the research findings on student learning in CARET's Questions & Answers for the question: "How can technology influence student academic performance? [3]"

The study "The Future of Children: Children and Computer Technology [4]" by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation [5], suggests that technology can enhance how children learn by supporting four key components of learning: (1) active engagement; (2) participation in groups; (3) frequent interaction and feedback, and (4) connections to real-world experts.