As we journey further into the 21st century, technology is becoming more present in every aspect of our lives, including the classroom. As a result, discussions about the use of technology in education are more commonplace
than ever before. Teachers understand the importance of engaging students with technology to prepare them for success in the modern world. According to a recent study by IT Trade Association CompTIA, about 75 percent of educators believe technology has a positive impact in the education process. This article details the many benefits of utilizing technology in the classroom, including facilitating collaboration and promoting student engagement.
Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, and it has a long history of being used in the classroom. As early as 1690, teachers used printed books to help students develop early reading skills. The early printed book most widely used was called the New England Primer. In 1841,
teachers began to use blackboards to more easily provide instruction to the entire class. Schools began to utilize radios in 1923 and videotapes in 1951. Each of these technologies allowed teachers to present information in new and interesting ways. Computers were introduced in 1960, and computer assisted instruction programs provided students with individual instruction in a specific content area. By 1990, whiteboards had replaced blackboards because they are cheaper and healthier for students and teachers. Today, students have access to a wide range of educational technology, including websites, apps, phones, cameras, and gaming devices. I created this timeline to illustrate the development of classroom technology.
Throughout my time as a student, I have personally used various forms of 
technology in the classroom. As early as elementary school, I used computers to complete research projects and play educational games. My favorite of these games was a website called Study Island. In middle school, Guilford County provided each student with a tablet. I used this device at school and at home to participate in classroom activities and complete homework assignments. As a college student, I use my laptop for school work every day. Because all my classes require me to submit assignments online, I would be unable to succeed without technology.
As a teacher, I plan to use technology in my classroom to make learning fun and better instill in my students the 21st century skills they need to be successful. For example, I could use Google Earth for a lesson about geography,
or I could arrange a Skype call between my classroom and an author during a reading lesson. I will be able to ask other teachers or use resources, like this website, to help develop creative lesson plans that incorporate technology. It will be my responsibility as an educator to remain informed about new developments in educational technology. This knowledge will allow me to provide my students with more resources and opportunities to be successful.
