Instructional technology in the classroom should be used to enhance the learning

of all students. The classroom should be student driven with technology as a support
system to create an active and engaging learning environment. Learning in the classroom
should be student-centered with planning, teaching, and assessment centered around the
needs of the students (ISTEs Essential Conditions, 2014). Teachers have a responsibility
to be a facilitator, a guide, and a co-learner, allowing for students to be explorers,
cognitive apprentices, and producers of knowledge (Creighton, 2003). Technology should
be used on regular basis and promote collaboration between teachers and students, and
students with each other.
Teachers must remember that learning must go beyond the classroom, and
technology can be a tool to aid the process. According to the Cobb Countys Three-Year
Technology Plan, technology is the core platform for learning, working, and living in
the twenty-first century (p. 3). Todays students will be living and working in a world
run by technology even greater than what is experienced today. Standards should go
beyond what students should know to "pass a class," but how to be positively engaged in
the world. The Ed Tech Action Network emphasizes that, Technology is an essential
component of a 21st century educationnot a frillbecause it helps students develop
essential learning skills and become life-long learners (Technology and Student
Administration, n.d.). Technology must be a prominent tool in education.
Administrators, teachers, and students can be supported by technology and the
information it brings. A well-rounded, technology-based school should have supportive
funding and equitable access for all teachers, staff, leaders, and students. Sound
technology infrastructure, personnel, digital resources, and staff development are key in
ensuring teachers are up to date in their knowledge of the use of technology (ISTEs
Essential Conditions, 2014). Empowered leaders empower teachers to use technology in
more meaningful ways.
In conclusion, the classroom should be a place where technology is used to
motivate students, enhance instruction, promote productivity, and sharpen information
age skills (Robler and Doering, 2010). Technology should not drive content, but help
engage students in meaningful learning moments.
















References
Cobb County School District. (2009). Three-Year Technology Plan. Retrieved from
https://kennesaw.view.usg.edu/content/enforced/170696-
CO.430.ITEC7410.10109.20134/7410_ModSeven/CobbPlan.pdf?_&d2lSessionV
al=eWcyUXFyBKWcKpCFKNNxMedFi
Creighton, T. (2003). The Principal as Technology Leader. California: Corwin
Press Inc.
Ed Tech Action Network. (n.d.). Technology and Student Administration. Retrieved
from http://www.edtechactionnetwork.org/technology-and-student-administration
Roblyer, M.D., Doering, Aaron (2010). Integrating Educational Technology
into Teaching (Fifth Edition). Pearson Education, Inc.