Discussion 4

I found one of the beginning paragraphs in the article to be very interesting. I dislike that the article states that "There is no clear standard definition of technology integration in K-12 schools" (p. 224). This section goes on to talk about the many deviations that result from this inconclusiveness. I believe this to be the number one problem when disucussing technology integration in the classroom. If we could start out with a clear definition for teachers then we could develop a strategy for how integration will occur and the means for it to happen. Because of the ambiguity of the overall definition, then results questions about what technology to use, how long to use it, etc. Then there are questions that involve the carrying out of the procedure, or how to train the teachers. I believe if we could be provided with a clear definition from the beginning, then some of the other questions could be answered. One way to start this would be to offer a definition about the level of computer use in classrooms, as is discussed in the article. For me, I would not consider the teacher using a personal computer to send emails, prepare lessons, and input grades to be technology integration into the classroom. This type of low-level use was previously discussed in Russell's (2003) article. I could not believe that this use was even put under the category of technology integrating. To me, integrating technology into the classroom means using technology, in addition to other materials such as their textbooks, to enhance students' learning and skills. This definition then needs to be developed more by including what technologies are included in this process, as well as the amount of time one needs to spend integrating such technologies. I believe by developing a standard definition to be used throughout all K-12 schools, this would cut down on the confusion and many problems with integrating technology in the classroom. First and foremost, teachers need to know what this exactly means. It might help veteran teachers develop an understanding of the reasons why such integration would be helpful. It would also help these teachers as well as preservice teachers know want is expected of them.