5 Keys of Tech Integration

One of my favorite things to do is to share with other educators ways to integrate technology into their classrooms.  There's something about igniting passion in others that is highly rewarding.  With the adoption of the Common Core State Standards, technology integration is a must.  Many schools and districts are scrambling, while they work to create curriculum that meets the expectations of the Common Core.  Whether or not schools currently have technology to meet the Common Core requirements there are a couple of things to remember. 

• It's not about the flashy app or device.  It's about the learning that occurs with it.  


• There are many apps that could be classified as low-level on the Bloom's scale because of their consumption factor.  Yet, it is what we as teachers decide to have our students do with those apps that makes the learning higher order. 


• Kiddos can be just as disengaged with tech as they can be without.  Designing highly engaging tasks that provide them with choice, challenge them, and give them purpose is key.


• It's okay to be unfamiliar with all available apps.  If we don't know how to do something, the kiddos are more than happy to learn and/or teach us.


• Just do it.  But do what you can and are comfortable with at first.  Expand upon that in swift time.