Implementing Technology

Summary:
The article, Implementing Technology Elementary Schools, highlights what it takes to implement technology in an elementary school classroom. One of the biggest challenges for teachers is learning how to be a facilitator in a technology classroom where students are on the computers. Limited space and supplies also contribute to some of things to be considered when implementing technology. For most technology classes, the best assessments are portfolios where students compile all of their worksheets, daily journals, sketches and any other work done in class. Even though technology education is still in the beginning stages of becoming a program, most teachers are making an effort to integrate technology in their classrooms.

My Thoughts:
I think that a technology education class should be implemented in elementary schools in every grade. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to try to have many computers in the classroom so a computer lab with a teacher that specializes in technology education would be more realistic. Students could go to technology class twice a week for 30 minutes or less or more frequently depending on the grade level. As long as students are receiving some exposure to technology each year, it would definitely be beneficial in their future.

Reference:
Implementing Technology in Elementary Schools. (2004, December). Technology & Children, Retrieved April 19, 2009, from Academic Search Complete database.