Sorting through so many technology choices

It seems like today we and our students are faced with SO many choices for technology. As teachers we must consider not only does the tool help us teach the concept, but we must also research if it is on an approved software list, affordable (usually meaning free), and is it worth the teacher's time learning how to use it for just one or two lessons before it will be put back on the "shelf" until that lesson rolls around next year. Is there one tool that you can use across many units for multiple classes? Of course there is. Unfortunately, that tool may not be the same one for each teacher.

The first consideration should always be if the technology can make your lesson more accessible, effective and help present the content in a way that makes it meaningful to your students. That is not something new, but it's very true. I love adding new technologies, but others may feel reluctant to jump in and swim in the deep end of the tech pool. I also have the advantage of tech being what I'm actually paid to teach.

If you have an idea of what you want to use but don't know if it actually exists, talk to your school librarian. They are always a good starting point because if they don't know, they will try to help you find out. Look for a colleague who seems pretty technologically connected. Ask them for some ideas. Have them show you what they are using. Never be afraid to ask questions about resources. They are constantly changing.

If you need a software, check the district approved software listing. Just browsing through you may see lots of things you didn't know existed and were readily available to you just for the asking.

If you are just beginning your journey into actually encouraging your students to investigate on their own and harness the power of having a computer in their hands, don't be afraid to let them take the lead sometimes. Our students aren't shy about jumping in and trying something new, usually much braver than their teachers.

Once you have a solid idea, actually take a few minutes and think about the possibilities that tool might provide for your students. Will they be more engaged in your Social Studies review if it is a Kahoot game where they compete against their classmates? Would a virtual field trip make a concept or connection seem more real?

Google has so many extensions that do so many things that you could spend a very long time just scratching the surface. Look at what interests you. Learn how to use it. The opportunities for integration will present themselves to you once you take the plunge for yourself.

Start simple. Pick one tool and try it out yourself. If you understand the basics, give it a shot with your students if it is appropriate. If you don't understand it, try a different tool. Once you begin to explore the freedom of breaking old habits and patterns of teaching and letting students take ownership of their own learning, you will find it addictive watching the light bulbs go off. You may just find you are way more experienced and knowledgeable than you ever thought you were.