A Technology-Infused Classroom

What would a technology-infused classroom look like? How do I plan to have a technology-infused classroom?

Before technology can even be addressed, a teacher must have an idea of the objectives to be taught and how to infuse HOTS (higher order thinking skills) into the lessons. Without these two items, technology in a classroom will have no relevance or impact.

So, with objectives and goals in mind, what does a 21st century classroom look like? To begin with, there are computers available for the students to access any information they might need in order to research, create, or practice the objectives. A SMART Board is available for whole-class instruction, along with videos and presentations - made by either the students or the teacher. Students should also have access to audio and video recording devices to enhance presentations and learning. For my math classroom, hand-held electronic math games and activities would be beneficial for exciting practice of the basic skills that all mathematicians will need. A printer would be available for students to create visuals for the classroom and projects.

My current classroom is filled with all of the above stated technology. However, I have not been prepared to use the technology to its fullest advantage over the last 5 years because I had little training on how to integrate it into a math classroom. Since January, when I began my Master's course, I have already used more technology in my classroom than I did the last four and a half years combined! Why? Because I have now done the research required for ideas on how and why to use technology. I have the summer off now to come up with more ideas and lessons so that the 2010-2011 school year will look completely different in my classroom! Students will engage in PowerPoint lessons, research projects, digital creations, and best of all, they will be thinking and creating ideas for themselves!