Ah, the role of educational technologies in teaching and learning is that of enhancement and support of the lesson. Classroom technology is a treasure chest of tools for the teacher. The remarkable part of this treasure chest is that it is filled with “technology” ranging from the smallest, least expensive, to the largest with a big price-tag.


Often, when the request for new technology goes forward, the first concern is affordability. What a surprise when the request may be for transparency film for the overhead projector. It is certain that students would enjoy any break from the mundane lecture, handout, question/answer sessions.

Technology should be used to help engage students in the lesson. The technology should not take center stage over the lesson. Technology should not be a means for the teacher to be center stage. It is important to consider the following three rules of engagement:
     • When technology may be used
     • Where technology may be used
     • How to use technology to achieve the desired ends

Plan, plan, and more planning are imperative for the successful use of technology in the classroom. If the tool does not enhance the learning process, it will destroy the teaching moment. Most students are savvy with technology. Students will notice if the lesson and the technology do not mix; clumsiness with the equipment will also be noticed and distracting to the class.

There are students with varied learning styles in a classroom and technology comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. To provide a variation in how lesson information is presented is certain to meet the needs of many. Various forms of audio tools can be used with the entire class, or to enhance learning of a few – remember DVD/CD/Cassette players and headphones. Whether it is a book on tape, or a personal recording of the lesson, it is a supplement. It is a double-good thing when the student(s) record the lesson – now they have heard it at least twice and the student was engaged! OK, perhaps creative and sneaky go together with making learning fun and successful. Think about models, or real objects. Jello in a plastic bag – a plant cell; throw in a button or a peanut as the nucleus. These two simple technologies reinforced a lesson, the students would be engaged, and it was not expensive. Keep it simple is a good rule of thumb, and keep in mind there is not much sophisticated technology that surprises students. They have just about seen all the technology there is available.