Technology integration is the use of technology resources – computers, cameras, CD-ROMs, software applications, the Internet, tape recorders, and overhead projectors – in daily classroom practice and in the management of the school. This was one of the strategies used by Camp Summer Plus 2011 to help the students make small, meaningful steps towards improving their numeracy and literacy skills.Effective infusion of technology is achieved when students are able to select technology tools to help them find information in a timely manner, analyze and synthesize it, and present it in an acceptable fashion. The use of educational technologies should gradually become an essential part of classroom practice. Technology integration is realized when the use of technology is routine and transparent. That is, the student or the teacher does not stop to think that he or she is using some form of technology resource, be it a computer or Internet research.Benefits of Technology IntegrationStudies show that effective integration of computer technologies into the teaching and learning process:1. Positively influences student academic performance;2. Develops higher-order thinking; 3. Improves student interest and attitude; and 4. Addresses the needs of low performing and at-risk students.Technology integration can improve student performance when the technology application:
- Directly supports the curriculum objectives being assessed;
- Provides opportunities for student collaboration;
- Adjusts for student ability and prior experience, and provides feedback to the student and teacher about student performance or progress;
- Is integrated into the typical instructional day; and
- Is used in environments where teachers, the school community, and school and district administrators support the use of technology.
Visit CARET [1]for more information on the integration of technology in the classroom.Recommended ReadingReeves, T.C. (1998). The impact of media and technology in schools: A research report prepared for The Bertelsmann Foundation. Retrieved from http://www.athensacademy.org/instruct/media_tech/reeves0.html [2]ReferenceUSAID/ Jamaica Basic Education Project. (2011). Camp Summer Plus enrichmment programme for reading. Kingston: USAID/ Jamaica Basic Education Project