EDTECH 541: Vision Statement

Today’s educational technology is in a constant state of change and it is expected that teachers integrate it into the curriculum.   One of the connecting elements across content areas is the integration of technology.  Educational technology is not simply a “computer” course in which students learn to use the rudimentary forms of technology.  As teachers, we are to incorporate technology into each level and subject as a tool to extend students’ learning on a daily basis (Star, 2011). With the digital shift in learning educators are inspiring their students to become dynamic learners.

Teachers must incorporate various styles of technology into their standards-based lesson plans.  The overall goal of Educational Technology in a teaching-learning environment is to engage students in an active-style of learning that will enhance their learning of the content and expand their technological knowledge.  Students should work towards mastering the technological skills and have a better understanding of the materials (How to Integrate Technology, 2007). Technology has been used as a form of communication in various forms throughout history.  It is important to engage learners and educate them in appropriate methods of communication using a variety of technological devices.  This authentic approach to learning can cross over into future professional skills needed in the workforce.

In an educational setting, technology has allowed students to gain useful knowledge through inquiry-based learning.  This constructivist view allows students to create their own understanding through various experiences (Roblyer, 2016).  Another view of learning that connects to educational technology is the cognitive approach of information-processing.  The integration of technology helps students understand new information and use it in appropriate ways.  Students need access and understanding of how to effectively use technology to obtain the 21st Century skills and knowledge to reach their academic and professional goals.  This includes forms of communication, how to use the Internet effectively, and other basic multimedia principles that will assist in learning.

Schools need to provide technology to students in the classroom due to the fact that the "digital divide" may put their students at a disadvantage at home.  Teachers need to be willing to become students of technology, so they understand the proper ways to integrate effective technology into their lessons.  As a learning community, we should encourage the students and their family to understand the importance of this life skill.


How to Integrate Technology. (2007). Retrieved August 30, 2016, from http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-guide-implementation

Roblyer, M. (2016). Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (7th ed.). Massachusetts: Pearson.

Star, L. (2011). Integrating Tech: More Than Just Having Computers. (n.d.). Retrieved August 29, 2016, from http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech146.shtml