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**Why Integrate Technology**  **Written by:** //Flagstaff Unified School District Sinagua High School: Michael Vogler Coconino High School: Jim Vail Punte de Hozho: Pam White-Hanson & Risha VanderWey//

How do you define technology

Technology is any tool that can be used to help perform a task more effectively. Some tools, like computers and the internet, allow information to be gathered, organized, and disseminated efficiently. Other tools, such as Smarboards, allow for display and interaction with information in a fun way. Document cameras allow for teachers to record and display information and actions to a large number of students so that students can more easily participate in classroom activities.

Strategies for technology integration

Teachers have integrated technology in various ways into their curricula. Some teachers have used document cameras to demonstrate labs for students. Others have used Promethian “clickers” to assess student understanding. Below are two examples of technology integration using Powerpoint to improve a writing assignment and a movie to give students ownership over their learning of history.

In one class, teachers integrated technology with reading and writing to have students create digital stories. Students worked collaboratively to generate a story with pictures. Using Powerpoint, students recorded their contributions, scanned images, and created a set of slides to tell their story. Later, they uploaded their creation to [|letswriteastory.wiki.fusd1.org]. In another class, students recorded videos of their plays integrating the Revolutionary War. Using Movie Maker, students digitized their videos and created movies that can be shown to others. Examples of these movies can be found at [|www.teachertube.com], click on the Video tab, and type Thomas Elementary School in the search field. What do your students find most engaging about the use of technology?

Students become more engaged with the use of smartboard technology that enables them to interact with the board while learning acadmic concepts. Students feel ownership when completing a project that is technologically based whether it be and imovie or a PowerPoint. When implemented appropriately, units can be taught appropriately, engaging students in a long lesson with minimal redirection.

Do you feel that the integration of technology was successful in student learning? Technology integration is key to student learning success. The use of technology makes learning meaningful, engaging, and creative for students and the instructor. Technology is a natural motivator for middle school students.

