Unit 2- Handler, M. Integrating Technology into the Instructional Process: Good Practice Guides the Way

This article by Marianne Handler describes the importance and different ways to integrate technology into the classroom. The most important aspect for teachers to take from this article is that technology or learning about computers should be incorporated into lessons and not viewed as its own content area. Handler goes on to give examples for four different uses of computers in the classroom, which consist of teaching students, being a tool with which students can learn from, being a tool to assist in the learning process, and a way to develop open-need exploratory experiences for the students. When using computers in the classroom, Handler recommends that great planning goes into the process, as well as using the computers within the teacher’s comfort level. Teachers should become familiar with different softwares and computer aides to include in their lesson plans. Overall, the article really encouraged teachers to get familiar with software and computers, so students have more opportunity and a wider range of learning available.
After reading this article, I fully agree with Marianne Handler about incorporating technology as a part of the class and not its own class. I will be teaching mathematics and there are several cool and interesting software available that lets students practice operational skills and advance their problem-solving skills. I know as a child, my favorite computer game to play was Fraction Munchers. Giving students the opportunity to grow in computer skills, increase mathematical understanding, and have fun at the same time seems to me like a win-win-win situation.