Tech+Integration

Tech Integration I chose the video “Digital Media Empower Group” where students in Chicago are learning different media technologies. There is a program that started in 2003 called (DYN) “Digital Youth Network.” This network that students are involved in takes place during and after school allowing kids to be able to use social networking tools to prepare them for such an advanced future in technology. I like the DYN program because the staff allows students to find their own interests and then helps them with the tools to be technology literate. It allows students to have a wide range of freedom with technology, but at the same time, the projects assigned align with the schools curriculum. This video has taught me that technology can meet the needs of all students’ interest. I believe it is important for students not to get wrapped up in the boring “text-book” study; rather they can use technology to find an interest that they enjoy by still achieving academic standards. The importance of integrating technology in today’s classroom is huge. It is easy for me to see how technology has changed through-out my life where I remember taking a type writing class my senior year of high school and now almost 15 years later taking a class online! Technology is the future so it is imperative that up and coming teachers integrate technology into their curriculum. Technology in the classroom can help the teacher and most important the student. Technology can help teachers with organization such as attendance or grades, data driven instruction, with more accurate/quicker information and in my field of special education, technology can help me with organizing data for my IEP’s, and can help me stay up to date with all of the new technological advances that they have with disabled children. Technology can help students by motivating them to learn using differentiated instruction. Technology in the classroom will help students not only prepare for a more advanced future in technology but will help students gain academic knowledge advancing their communication skills. Being that I am in the field of special education, I will be using technology all of the time. Most of the disabled students that I have worked with already use some sort of technology device. In the SSN field, students use technology devices to communicate and to complete curriculum assignments. Another example in my field where technology is used is when teachers make accommodations for state-wide tests. Some students are accommodated with a voice recorder, a computer, and communication devices. When I get my own classroom, I will make sure that technology is a part of my daily routine. I have to be licensed for my student’s technology devices, and will use a smart board for a visual aid. Technology has to be my world in the classroom in order for students to achieve their academic goals, and with some students, their life-long skill goals.