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Reflection on the Integration of Technology in the Classroom Essay

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The following reflective essay will focus on technology and its importance in addressing the needs of digital learners. The essay will begin by addressing ways reasons for the integration of technology in education, as well as discussing ways in which teachers can use technology to enhance learning and student engagement. Secondly, the essay will examine how teachers can become part of the learning process by empowering students to serve as knowledge brokers. The essay will close by assessing ways in which technology can be used to meet the diverse learning needs of today’s students, specifically those with special educational needs. Part One: Engaging Students with Technology Today’s students have very different needs than those of …show more content…

4). I believe strongly that the integration of game-based learning, virtual worlds, and relevant web 2.0 technologies is a great way for teachers to tap into the needs and interests of digital learners. Unfortunately, many educators today are hesitant to shift their instructional methods. Vance (2012) states that “while teachers seem to introduce technology into the curriculum when they believe in its efficacy, they may not know what technology to introduce, how to proceed with this integration, or whether administrative support will be available” (p. 485). I feel it is important that schools begin to ensure adequate time and funds are spent on training and professional development to better support teachers in using technology to better meet the needs of digital learners, helping teachers to grow in skill and confidence in this changing world. Part Two: The Role of Student as Knowledge Broker Technology today is rapidly changing, making it very difficult for educators to stay current with new technologies. Many teachers I work with find the idea of technology integration overwhelming and are reluctant to explore and familiarize themselves with current web 2.0 tools. “Keeping pace with the rapid proliferation of information, software tools, and devices is challenging for students and teachers alike” (Johnson, Smith, Willis, Levine, & Haywood, 2011, p. 4). I feel that this, coupled with the fact there is pressing need for more professional development and

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