Article Two

http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction

This article is about integrating technology into instruction. To do this, the article states there are four major components of learning that the technology must reach. The first is active engagement. Student must be in engaged with the technology, really capturing their attention. Technology needs to have participation in groups with lots of interaction and peer/teacher feedback. As always, it needs to connect to real-world issues that affect our students. Through technology integration student can practice problem solving skills and real world applications to the "modern" office.

Integrating technology is definitely vital for educators and students, as long as technology is "routine and transparent." I agree that students should be exposed to technology in the classroom. This article did a great job of explaining why/how students work in tandem with technology to improve their education. Technology allows students to grasp understanding not only through text, but also images, videos, and sounds

Reflecting on this article and video embedded within, I love seeing news ways to bring in technology. I often limit myself to what technology I am familiar with and always comes to mind. This article and video reminded me that there is SO MUCH technology "out there" and that I am limiting myself and harming the learning of my students. Who would have thought that bring simple technology, such as a heart rate monitor, could be so beneficial in the classroom--yet I overlooked it because I didn't see it as new and useful technology. I need to give myself more credit for the technology that I DO know, and constantly check blogs, sites, and ask other teachers for new technology. This will constantly stretch my learning and keep my students engaged.