Top 10

Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in the Classroom:

10. Everybody's doing it. Since the kids like to use this one, I figure why not. Actually, this one refers to the fact that technology is becoming more interwoven in our lives and it is unlikely to stop. It's a matter of get on board or get left behind. Employers like to see it and stakeholders as well.

9. The possibilities are endless. When we look at how far we have come in the last 20 years, it really does seem like the possibilities are endless. Why wouldn't you want that in your classroom?

8. One laptop is easier to carry than seven books. It's amazing how much input is contained inside of those hard plastic shells. E-books are the future of many schools.

7. We can learn a whole lot from our students. I learn more from students about technology than any other subject.

6. Who needs an encyclopedia? Again, it is absolutely amazing how much input is available at one's fingertips. Do encyclopedia salesmen still exist?

5. Get stakeholders informed and excited. Using technology is a great way to get your community excited about your school.

4. Get parents informed, engaged, and excited. Fewer conference time surprises for parents. It also is a way to get and keep parents informed, interested, and on board.

3. Instant feedback. Students love feedback. For teachers, feedback can be a time consuming chore. Use blogs and forums to provide that feedback.

2. Dunder-Mifflin is in trouble. Use social networks, forums, and blogs to reduce the amount of paper that is used in your classroom.

1. Social-networking. Is there any better way to encourage students to take ownership in their education? Since they are already doing it, it is just plain natural.

Computer Architecture

For me, the most important benefit of this course is that it has given me a little more confidence. I think that most people want to be "tech savvy." Getting there can be tough. This course certainly has not made me savvy, but it is a step in the right direction. One thing that my action research has taught me is that familiarity with content vocabulary can greatly enhance student comprehension. Well, now that I understand the vocabulary a little better, it helps me when I need to interact with others regarding computer technology.