What is the role of technology in education? If we are going to use technology in meaningful and effective ways, then we need to shift our focus from the what of the tools to the how and the why. Whatever technology you have, it can be integrated in a way that enhances teaching and learning. By taking an integrated approach to technology, you put student learning at the center as its purpose.
Effective technology integration isn't about what you have, it's about how you use it. And how you use it depends on so much more than just curriculum, or just devices, or just pedagogy. It depends on having a purpose-based and student-centered approach to integrating all aspects of technology in learning.
Sarah Gilmore and Katierose Deos outline six key elements-purpose, mindset, pedagogy, curriculum, resources and infrastructure, and leadership-that have an influence on the effectiveness of technology integration. Each chapter is clearly organized to focus on these elements in detail, presenting a vision for why they matter, how they connect, and how you can take steps to develop effective technology integration within your practice or your school.
Integrating Technology provides practical ideas, advice, and examples that offer concrete support to help teachers and administrators plan for, scaffold, and use the technology they have for the benefit of student learning.
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to technology integration. Wherever you are in the world and whatever your role is, you can harness the power of technology to make teaching and learning more meaningful, relevant, and effective. Let Integrating Technology be your guide and start making effective technology integration a reality in your school community.
About the Author: Sarah Gilmore is an EdTech Integration Specialist and education consultant based in Connecticut. She has taught internationally for many years as an Elementary classroom teacher, before specializing in the use of technology to enhance learning across the curriculum. In addition to her teaching and coaching work, Sarah presents at conferences and workshops internationally. She is a co-founder of Intechgrate.eu with Katierose Deos, where she consults with schools and their teachers on integrating technology into wider teaching and learning. You can connect with her on Twitter at @S_J_Gilmore.
Katierose Deos started her teaching career teaching in K - 8 classrooms in the United States. She is currently the Primary Years Curriculum Coordinator at Berlin International School in Berlin, Germany, where she works to implement, develop, and enhance curriculum at both the primary and whole school level. Katierose presents at conferences and workshops internationally. She is a co-founder of Intechgrate.eu with Sarah Gilmore, where she consults with schools and their teachers on integrating technology into wider teaching and learning. You can connect with her on Twitter at @DeosKatierose.
