Technology+Integreation-+what+is+it?

Definition and Resources for clarifying what technology integreation is:

FROM EDUTOPIA:

[|Edutopia] - videos defining tech integration

Technology integration is the use of technology resources -- computers, digital cameras, CD-ROMs, software applications, the Internet, etc. -- in daily classroom practices, and in the management of a school. Technology integration is achieved when the use of technology is routine and transparent. Technology integration is achieved when a child or a teacher doesn't stop to think that he or she is using a computer or researching via the Internet. Technology integration is achieved when technology is accessible and readily available for the task at hand, the 21st Century task. Technology integration is achieved when technology tools support the curricular goals, and help the students to effectively reach their goals. Students are more actively engaged in projects when technology integration is a seamless part of the learning process.

When effectively integrated into the curriculum, technology tools can extend learning in powerful ways. These tools, including the Internet and multimedia applications, can provide students and teachers with:
 * Access to up-to-date, primary source material
 * Methods of collecting and recording data;
 * Ways to collaborate with students, teachers, and experts around the world
 * Opportunities for expressing understanding via images, sound, and text
 * Learning that is relevant and assessment that is authentic
 * Training for publishing and presenting their new knowledge.

FROM COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY FOR MATH EXCELLENCE:

Technology integration, as defined by the National Forum on Education Statistics (2005), [| Forum Unified Education Technology Suite], "is the incorporation of technology resources and technology-based practices into the daily routines, work, and management of schools" ([|Part 8]). Resources are computers and specialized software, network-based communication systems, and other equipment and infrastructure. Practices include collaborative work and communication, Internet-based research, remote access to instrumentation, network-based transmission and retrieval of data, and other methods. According to the Software & Information Industry Association (2006), software for integration includes a wide variety of applications that: Key questions (National Forum of Education Statistics, 2005, adapted from Part 8) include:
 * meet instructional, curriculum/content, assessment, classroom management, and enterprise level administrative tasks;
 * are used in the classroom, school office, and potentially accessed offsite such as from home (student or educator) or from a mobile device;
 * are installed on a computer or other device, installed on a school local network or wide area network, or hosted by a third party and accessed online via a web browser;
 * include a wide variety of digital content ranging from an electronic version of a printed material (e.g., e-book or pdf file) to multi-media, interactive and adaptive courseware. (p. 3)
 * Are teachers and students proficient in using technology in the teaching/learning environment?
 * To what extent (percentage) has technology been integrated in the teaching/learning environment?
 * Do teaching and learning standards and student assessment include technology proficiencies and measures?
 * Do administrative standards include technology proficiencies and measures?
 * Are administrators and support personnel proficient in using technology for school management?
 * Is technology incorporated into administrative processes?
 * Is technology proficiency integrated into evaluation of instructional and support staff?