Technology in the Classroom

As an up and coming elementary school teacher I know that technology is an important part of my classroom setup. Technology in the classroom is strongly encouraged in all formal teaching courses. Children in this 21st century are technology "junkies". They have iphones, Wii's, ipods, laptops and more. Technology is a normal part of their modern day lives. As teachers we can incorporate this technology fascination into the classroom as a tool to encourage and stimulate academic learning.

As a future teacher I have to admit I am worried the children will know more than I do about technology. I will probably learn a lot from them. My lifetime experience with technology is much different then that of my future students. I remember the green faced computers I used on occasion as a child in elementary school. I got my first computer as a laptop when I entered college. I can still remember thinking, when cellphones were coming out, that I never wanted one because it seemed to preoccupy people's lives. I have to admit at times I have felt technologically resistant, but I also see the great value in it. Typing makes writing papers more efficient. Searching on the internet is a good and quick beginning to any research topic. Cell phones create a feeling of safety to be able to call someone at the drop of a hat.

As a future teacher I do want to incorporate technology into my room. I think it is important for students to learn to type. Knowing how to type well saved me precious time as a student. I want my students to know how to safely and effectively use the different programs on the computer like word and excel. I want my students to know how to safely and effectively use the internet in the various ways it can be used. I know in order to do this I need to refine my skills prior to teaching and also continue to learn as a teacher from my students and also in other ways outside of my classroom.