1. Technology in the Classroom

2. Teachers need to expand their technology toolbox to meet the needs of today’s technologically savvy student. Developing a Teacher’s Toolbox

3. Teachers can fill their toolbox with technology such as the use of iPods and iPads, as wells as podcasts, blogs, texts, and smart boards, just to mention a few.

4. According to the editors on the Technology Education website, with more than 2 million iPads being sold since their release, iPads are transforming today’s educational system (2010).

5. The iPad can be used to take notes, store textbooks, access the internet, and with iPad applications such as Touch to Talk, students can use the iPad in many facets of their educational life. Some of the same applications available for the Apple iPad are also available for Apple’s iPod.

6. Not only has Apple made an impact in making technology accessible to the public, other companies have followed suite and presented their line of tablet pcs. This line of devices run on the Android market and have a wide variety of applications available.

7. Another growing technology piece in elementary schools is the smart board. The smart board is an interactive white board which can be used for a variety of purposes. Interactive Whiteboards

8. Interactive white boards are becoming more common in schools. In fact, now educators can find templates and Smart Notebook files already made. There is also a variety of software selections available at retail stores by subject and grade level. There is no reason to reinvent the wheel, when it is already made. Interactive Software

9. While not all technology is affordable, for instance to have Smart boards or iPads for every class or every student, the cost is decreasing. When comparing technology currently being used in classrooms, such as a Dynavox the iPads are much more affordable. This may be something worth more investigation, considering the current budget issues. iPad suggested retail cost is $599.00 versus a Dynavox (voice output device used for nonverbal students) with a retail cost of several thousand dollars.

10. As the growth of technology spreads into more classrooms and homes, there is an imperative need for teachers to not only stay current on technology, but make sure the technology they have in their classrooms actually works for their students…and does not just become a piece of furniture.

11. Google images: Android Logo ®, Apple Logo®, Smartboard, Interactive Software Microsoft Clipart Collection: computer lab, mp3 player, animated toolbox, dollar sign, computer classroom Photo Credits