Technology. Education. There once was a world where these two entities would never cross paths. Today, the are one in the same. Many teachers have merged the two to work synchronous with one another. Substitute "Education" with the synonym of "Learning" and a whole new world opens.
Just as each student is different on the outside, so are they on the inside. Therefore, a variety of instructional strategies is the supporting foundation to a well-rounded educational experience for all children. It's an accepted fact that all students learn differently; now, teachers need to teach differently, integrating a myriad of ways to reach and teach all students. Technology assists in this role because it appeals to the 21st Century Learners.
Concerning my own teaching, I integrate technology as much as possible. However, the biggest obstacle I face is the lack of funding and technological resources. That then forces me to research free software to use that requires minimal external downloads and is compatible with Windows. Time constraints are an obstacle as well because we do not have one-to-one technological devices and one lab serves our 206 students. I use the technology I have in my room (one computer, Promethean board, and ActivInspire "clickers") as much as possible.
I do like the challenge that technology poses, however. It makes me a better teacher, truly. This is the main reason I'm pursuing my master's degree in technology, as opposed to PLC or Administration. Technology isn't going away, and I need to prepare myself to be the best teacher I can be for my students.
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