Tech+Integration

I watched the video entitled “Students Get a Wired Education”. The video was about Mary Scroggs Elementary School and how technology was integrated into every part of the school’s curriculum and activities. All of the students, from kindergarten to fifth grade were able to use computers, access web pages, create documents, etc. The school also had a daily news broadcast on various topics, a project that involved children from any of the grades to help run it. I enjoyed watching this video very much because I was pleasantly surprised to see the capabilities of even kindergarteners in using technology that I only discovered in middle school and no earlier than fifth grade. I appreciated how such an early education in technology not only prepared the students for a technological society, but also inculcated a sense of responsibility in its use. Especially significant was a program the school had for disadvantaged students that enabled them to have a computer at home so that they would not miss out on opportunities other students had.  Technology integration is important in today’s classrooms because students need to be prepared for the widespread use of it in society and daily life. Without basic computer skills, for example, they’re ability to attain a job is much lower. Also, teachers should be able to help their students to be responsible and balanced in the use of technology so that it does not go to waste when they need it in the future. Students can develop skills in searching the web efficiently, creating projects, etc. before they are exposed to the good and bad of technology.