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Integrating technology means to enhance learning by using available technological tools available. Because technology will be used forever, it is important to integrate it into every-day learning.

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In recent years a shift away from the concept of teaching technology to that of integrating technology has begun. In essence, what this distinction boils down to is a move away from treating technology primarily as a skills-based, disciplinary subject that students do (e.g., "We have IT next period") to seeing it as something that they use to enhance how they learn something else. With an integrated approach to technology education we treat technology as a tool that we can apply in all subjects and to various tasks, for the purpose of enhancing the learning process.

This does not mean that technology is not still also a subject in its own right: there will always be technology-specific skills and understandings our students need to have to be able to use it effec tively, particularly as they move through school. What it means is that as the nature and application of technology beyond school have evolved, so too must our approach to how we use and teach with it. This will help students learn to make informed, discerning choices about when, why, and how to use technology in and beyond the classroom.

This is why an integrated approach to technology is so valuable for learning: it puts student learning at the center as its purpose. Technology integration doesn't mean using technology all the time or, necessarily, more than you already do; it means using it purposefully, in ways and at times that make sense. When technology is integrated effectively it supports student learning in all its forms, allowing teachers to break down learning barriers and enhance wider teaching and learning.

What Is Effective Technology Integration?

Efficacy can be a tricky and subjective concept in education, since whether you consider something to have been effective or not really depends on what you hoped to achieve by doing it. We believe that the measure of truly effective technology integration is whether it enhances student learning.

When we think about technology's purpose in the classroom, and how we can leverage its strengths to help students develop the ability to learn successfully, we frame it around what we call the 3 Cs of learning: communicating, collaborating, and constructing under-standing.

Communication is vital to classroom learning, and we think about it in two ways: our communication as teachers and the communication we ask of our students. We ask students to communicate constantly: with themselves, each other, us, and the wider world.

Collaboration is the ability to work with others to create, solve problems, and learn. Whether within students' own class or school, or with other students, experts, and adults outside the school, working collaboratively is an extremely valuable skill for learning and one that is highly valued in adult life and work.

Communication and collaboration are twin pillars supporting the ultimate goal of learning: constructing understanding. Being able to transfer learning and construct deep understanding relies on students having the opportunity and support to attach content to concepts and make connections between classroom learning and real life. This is what allows our students to take the facts, knowledge, and skills they have learned out of theory and into reality; it changes their learning from abstract to concrete. We can use technology in ways that allow our students to communicate and collaborate more effectively and more seamlessly.

How Can We Integrate Technology Effectively?

Effective technology integration isn't about what you have; it's about how you use it. And how you use it depends on so much more than just curriculum, or just devices, or just pedagogy. It depends on having a purpose-based, holistic, and student-centered approach to integrating all aspects of technology in learning.

The process of developing that vision for technology integration and realizing it in a sustainable way can be long and challenging, but we believe it is worthwhile. As educators and as writers, our aim in our practice and in this book is to share what we have learned in our teaching and our work with others about how and why technology integration can make a positive impact on learning and to present an effective framework for schools and teachers.
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This blog has been adapted from Integrating Technology by Sarah Gilmore and Katierose Deos. Learn more at Heinemann.com

Follow us on Instagram @heinemannpub to stay up to date on the latest books, your favorite authors, and upcoming events!

Sarah Gilmoreis an EdTech Integration Specialist at Berlin International School in Berlin, Germany. She has taught internationally for many years as an Elementary classroom teacher, before specializing in the use of technology to enhance learning across the curriculum. In addition to her teaching and coaching work, Sarah presents at conferences and workshops internationally.

She is a co-founder of Intechgrate.euwithKatierose Deos, where she consults with schools and their teachers on integrating technology into wider teaching and learning. You can connect with her on Twitter at@S_J_Gilmore.

Katierose Deosstarted her teaching career teaching in K-8 classrooms in the United States. She is currently the Primary Years Curriculum Coordinator at Berlin International School in Berlin, Germany, where she works to implement, develop, and enhance curriculum at both the primary and whole school level. Katierose presents at conferences and workshops internationally.

She is a co-founder of Intechgrate.eu withSarah Gilmore, where she consults with schools and their teachers on integrating technology into wider teaching and learning. You can connect with her on Twitter at @DeosKatierose.

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What Technology Integration Is and Why It Matters

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Technology integration doesn't mean using technology all the time or, necessarily, more than you already do; it means using it purposefully, in ways and at times that make sense.

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Ms. Hart's classroom hums with activity. Scattered about are two dozen students working in small groups on their latest project: making a shoebox glide through the air.

Three students are searching for design principles on the web. Another group interacts with a drawing on the smart board - they touch the white surface, rotate the object to view it from different angles, and give each other fist bumps to celebrate their discovery. Across the room, a couple of students wait for the printer to stop its run. Their reproduced "airplane skins" are almost ready to be applied to their aircraft.

At the end of the project, the groups will video their shoebox flights. Then they'll upload these digital records to the class webpage, along with a written analysis of their findings.

Ms. Hart's students incorporated mathematics and scientific principles to design, construct, and test their creations. As they worked, they researched, evaluated, applied, and justified their decisions. The project would not have been so successful if it weren't for the appropriate integration of technology in the classroom.

According to the International Society for Technology in Education ( ISTE), classes like the one described above allow instructors to "rethink education and create innovative learning environments."

What does technology integration really mean?

Technology integration is the well-coordinated use of digital devices and cloud computing as tools for problem-solving, deeper learning, and understanding.

Technology facilitates access to curriculum but is not the curriculum itself. Teachers guide their students in using technology as a tool for accessing and understanding educational content.

The success behind technology integration in education

There are two keys to successfully integrating technology in the classroom. The first lies in understanding the role of technology in the classroom. Keeping students - not the technology - at the center of instruction is the second.

Authentic and meaningful technology integration is a relationship between the teacher, the student, and the curriculum. Technology is the vehicle that makes it happen.

In Ms. Hart's classroom, students used technology as an appropriate medium for completing their assignment. Their focus remained on the learning objectives and project goals - the tech was just a tool. Learning how to use the available technology also supplemented their learning experience and helped them work more efficiently.

Digital automation and machinery alone will never make school a better place. Technology integration in education doesn't shift the focus from instruction. Instead, it enhances an existing educational program by serving as a learning device.

Photo credit: Google

Benefits of technology integration

First, technology meets students where they are in the learning continuum by assessing their strength and weaknesses. Then, the programs identify appropriate learning objectives and establish learning pathways for each student.

Second, instructional software allows students to access their classwork anytime. Students may extend their learning by working on programs outside of class: before school, during lunch time, or from home if they have access to the apps from their own devices.

Third, learners find technology responsive and engaging. In the classroom, students with access to technology have useful tools that assist with active learning and problem-solving. Integrated technology encourages engagement and exploration in a way that traditional textbooks can never fill. Classroom lessons are less about the technology itself and more about deep learning. Students use technology to achieve the task at hand: understanding content.

Additionally, software and digital voice assistants provide alternative, reliable sources of information or fact-checking. These programs patiently repeat directions and lessons, customizing instruction through differentiation.

Finally, as learners engage with software and other technology, certain algorithms can collect data about student achievement for teachers to analyze. This data allows them to better plan future lessons and attend to their students' needs.

Integrated technology that improves learning

Computers and internet access have become staples of many modern classrooms, and we often take them for granted.

The diverse technology available in today's classrooms has transcended the personal computer, taking alternative forms such as:

Artificial reality/virtual reality

Digital smart boards

Intelligent gamification

Digital voice assistants/teaching robots

Interactive displays

But these tools alone are not enough for technology integration in education. How will the learners use the technology to create something new, like a blog, a video, or yes, even a shoebox that flies?

School administrators are trained to observe how students interact with technology in the classroom. Many principals watch classroom activities closely to ensure that every student in class is using the provided devices and instructional software. They pour over reports indicating how much time a given student has spent using software or devices like Kindles.

Simply logging screen time doesn't tell you whether students are benefiting from technology. Instead, school leaders should assess the various ways in which students interact with the available digital tools. It's critical to note how skillfully the learners use technology and for what reasons.

Expertise comes from understanding how and when to use digital tools. Edtech apps and solutions for classrooms continue to develop new products every year. The adoption of new edtech depends on one factor: teacher proficiency.

Photo credit : Google

Classroom technology integration begins with teachers

Teachers are the determining factor in successful technology integration. For technology integration to be so seamless that its inclusion is almost automatic, teachers must be competent in its use.

This kind of proficiency is the result of ongoing professional development. Teachers need specific technology skills, including:

Hardware maintenance

Acquiring basic troubleshooting skills.

Caring for equipment properly.

Developing an awareness of computer security and copyright laws.

Working with software

Downloading and installing computer software.

Creating and using documents, spreadsheets, and presentation slide decks.

Managing emails and other electronic messages.

Developing an understanding of social media platforms and how/when to use them.

Learning web navigation and search engine best practices.

Designing and maintaining websites.

Incorporating educational software that supplements classroom instruction.

Collecting and analyzing student achievement data.

Using video conferencing tools.

Perhaps most importantly, teachers need a willingness to use new technologies in the classroom as a part of the instructional process.

Technology integration is a dynamic process

Technology integration in education is more than the sum of hours spent on computer programs. It's a dynamic process coordinated by skilled teachers and supported by school leaders.

Not all students intuitively know how to use technology for educational purposes, but they are eager learners who depend on their teachers to make that technology available to them. In turn, school administrators must assist teachers in understanding technology's role in the classroom and learning how to integrate it. The effort requires not only professional development for teachers but also sufficient time for them to practice using technology in class.

Finally, it's important to keep in mind that the intent behind integrating technology is to supplement existing resources and instructional content. Students are, and always will be, the central focus of education, so technology needs to be effectively and appropriately employed for their learning to thrive.

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What does "technology integration" mean? - Classcraft Blog

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Take a look at how integrating learning technology in the classroom actually works and see the positive impacts is has on teachers and students.

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Edutopia is a free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education. We are published by the George Lucas Educational Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.

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Here is a video explaining why technology in the classroom is essential.

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Technology in the classroom | Ethan Dickens | TEDxPascoCountySchoolsED

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Modern education is becoming more dynamic and engaging. Technology can play a huge role in the classroom. Ehtan is an 8th grade student at Dr. John Long Middle School in Pasco county Florida. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.

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An article explaining safety in technology.

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If you're a parent with school-age or younger children, there's a chance they've told you multiple times that they want the latest phones, games, or tech gadgets. But before you swipe that card or head to the gadget store for a look, remember that kids and screen time don't always gel.

Effects of Tech on Kids

According to a discussion paper published by the UNICEF's Office of Research-Innocenti, digital technology has both negative and positive impacts on children. The researchers recommended that for children to mentally benefit from tech for kids, exposure should be kept in moderate amounts and that family, school, and socio-economic environments be looked at as well.

The paper also highlighted that more attention should be given to how content influences children and the types of digital activities they engage in.

Meanwhile, a European Commission summary of research studies from various sources says that while internet use can result in developmental skills in children, as well as improved employability down the line, digital technology also exposes them to online violence and harm, such as child sexual abuse and cyberbullying.

In addition, the studies found that most children knew not to post images of themselves that could divulge their exact location. They were, however, "less aware of how to stay safe on a more emotional level," especially when cyberbullied.

Staying on the Safe Side of New Technology for Kids

So children reap the most benefits out of their gadgets and media tools, below are a few tips for parents on how to help kids shield themselves from the negative effects of technology:

1. Start Them Young

The best time to teach internet safety for kids is as soon as they start using the internet. You are probably there by their side explaining how the address bar works, which words to type into a search engine when looking up things and whatnot.

This, too, is the perfect opportunity to teach them that the online realm is an extension of their real lives. Just like in the real world, there are good and bad people. And that what they would not normally do in person, they should also not do online.

Related Article: Tips for Teachers to Encourage Students to Learn about STEM

2. Set and Implement House Rules

Kids should follow a set time and limit for their media activities. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following:

No screen media except for video chatting for kids below 18 months

Only high-quality programming for children 1.5 to 2 years, with parents watching with them to explain what they're seeing

One hour per day of quality programs for kids aged 2 to 5, with parents also watching with them for guidance on how to apply what they see in real life

For kids 6 years and older, the time they spend on digital technology shouldn't affect physical activity, sleeping time, and other essential activities

Make sure to place the internet-connected computer where you can see what they do, such as in the living room. Also, designate media-free time for the entire family, such as during dinner or while driving.

3. Never Allow Very Young Children to Browse the Internet Unaccompanied

Children nowadays are very smart. One way to ensure they cannot log on to the internet without your consent is to configure your kid's gadgets to input the Wi-Fi password every time they want to connect. In other words, they would have to ask you for the password every time.

4. Teach Them How to Protect Their Accounts and Gadgets

When creating accounts online, teach them to use strong passwords and not to use the same password for different accounts. Show them how to activate the security settings on their social media profiles. Remind them to never ignore any prompts to update their security software. If they're not sure what to do or suspect that the prompt might be malware, ask them to ask you for help.

Also, it's vital that they learn the risks of oversharing on the web, as well as downloading apps from dubious sources.

5. Use Parenting Technology Tools

Parents have so much to do, and it's impossible to police your children's every online activity or every app they download to make sure they stay off the seedy parts of the web. The best alternative is to install parental controls on their gadgets. Of course, especially for older children, you have to first let them know why you're doing this and how it can benefit them. You don't want to send the message that you don't trust them.

Norton lists five reasons for installing parental controls:

Cybersecurity

Time management

Online reputation

Data backup

Cyber etiquette

Keep the Negative Effects of Technology for Kids at Bay

There are inherent risks involved with technology and the internet. They exist even for adults, but all the more so for children whose screen time is unsupervised. As parents, it's your duty to protect your children from cyber threats and information that they're too young to handle.

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Kids and Technology: Creating a Safe Environment for Your Children

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If you're a parent with school-age or younger children, there's a chance they've told you multiple times that they want the latest phones, games, or tech gadgets. But before you swipe that card or head to the gadget store for a look, remember that kids and screen time don't always gel.

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Finding creative ways to use technology in the classroom can both make your life easier as a teacher and boost student excitement levels and engagement with lessons. From helping with communication among teachers and students (as well as peer-to-peer), to organizing curriculum calendars and enhancing presentations and lessons with media and visuals, there is no limit to the ways to use technology in the classroom to create an enriched learning environment. Here are just a few examples:

1. Gamified learning

To this day, I give all credit for my skill in typing to time spent playing typing games in the computer lab of my elementary school. Not only were the games incredible, and incredibly engaging programs for teaching students typing skills, they made using a computer fun and exciting for me and set the foundation for all other computer knowledge I've gained since. Learning can and should be fun and using technology for gamified learning in your classroom can be advantageous to achieving that goal. One example of a gamified learning experience is Giant Steps, a digital learning experience designed to help K-12 teachers boost student collaboration and independent practice, from the makers of GoGuardian Teacher and Pear Deck, two of the world's most popular learning platforms.

While learning software can be a great teaching tool, gamified learning can also be as simple as creating a virtual scavenger hunt by coming up with a list of questions for students to search and find the correct answers for and adding students to pairs or groups to encourage collaboration and teamwork.

2. Digital field trips

An increasingly popular, useful, and cost-effective tool for teachers searching for new ways to use technology in the classroom is taking digital field trips. Google Streetview and other similar apps allow you to virtually explore parks, forests, and even national and international landmarks from the comfort of your classroom. Virtually experience the view from the Statue of Liberty or hike through the Grand Canyon to get students excited to learn about a location or subject and extend learning beyond the page.

3. Integrate social media

Because students already spend so much of their time on social media, integrating its use into your classroom is among the most innovative ways to use technology in the classroom by connecting students to curriculum, classroom resources, and one another. Create a Facebook group specifically for your class where you post discussion topics or develop unique classroom Twitter hashtags students can use to discuss lessons or ask questions.

4. Gather student feedback

The true test of any classroom structure and/or curriculum is how well it helps students learn, and getting feedback from students is vital to assessing this, determining what is and isn't working, and addressing problems and confusion as they arise. Use online surveys and polls to perform daily or weekly check-ins with students to get their opinions on lessons and address lingering questions or concerns. Expand on the usage of Twitter hashtags by having students tweet their feedback and questions with a classroom hashtag.

#QTNA (questions that need answers!)

5. Creating digital content

Creating digital content related to the things they are learning is a great way for students to display their individual creative talents as well as showcase learning. As with any other project, the process of creating content is most effective when students are able to express themselves in ways that highlight and accommodate their personal strengths and learning/communication styles. Provide options for students to express themselves through blogs, videos, podcasts, eBooks, flyers, other digital art, or any other means they feel most comfortable. Respecting each student's individuality and needs for creative expression helps them flourish as learners.

6. Using a classroom calendar

Develop a shared online calendar for your classroom through Google Calendar or a similar program for posting important updates. Post assignment due dates and classroom events (such as field trips and guest speakers) in one easily-accessible location for both teachers and students. Go a step further and share the calendar with caregivers to keep them connected and engaged with their child's learning.

7. Review and critique webpages

While we know you can find almost anything on the internet, we also know much of what you may find is not reliable information from reliable sources. I remember being told frequently by teachers and professors, "Wikipedia is not a reliable source" when doing research papers, but can't recall a single instructor who explained why. Empower your students with digital literacy to analyze and discern reliable web pages and sources from unreliable ones by reviewing them together and developing and communicating standards for what makes a good source.

8. Video/multimedia lessons and presentations

Bring presentations to life for students by incorporating visual effects, photos, videos, and music into them. Developing slideshows and digital presentations, playing music or a video for background and context while presenting, or inviting virtual guest speakers to engage with your class via programs designed for conference calls (such as Skype, Google Hangouts, and Facetime) are all fun and creative ways to boost engagement with lessons while teaching the benefits of technology and multimedia use.

9. Online activities for students who finish work early

Set up learning stations to encourage and support students working at their own pace. If a student finishes an assignment early, rather than being stuck waiting for other students to catch up or class to end, students can extend and enhance their learning by visiting a learning station and watching videos, playing learning-based games, or exploring other online activities related to their studies.

Why students benefit from using technology in the classroom

Integrating technology into classrooms allows for more (and more effective) communication between students and teachers, as well as students, peers, and caregivers, all of which are vital to students' academic success. Using technology in your classrooms also creates space for students to have a voice in their learning. Students are empowered to take responsibility of their learning through giving feedback on lessons, participating in projects and learning activities that respect their individuality, and having opportunities and support to learn and understand how to use technology creatively, effectively, and safely.

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Note: This article was originally posted March 11, 2019 and has been updated as of July 10, 2023.

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9 Unique Ways to Use Technology in the Classroom

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Looking for creative, different ways to use technology in the classroom? Explore our list of ideas to keep your students entertained and engaged.