The role of a technology integration specialist is one that has evolved into a much more complex role over the past few years. In the past the teaching of technology related concepts used to fall solely on the technology teacher. However, as technology grows and becomes an integral part of our society, it is now important for technology to be integrated into all classrooms and learning environments. Therefore, the role of the technology integration specialist is now focused on developing strong relationships with administrators and teachers to guide the implementation of technology into the school. Technology integrationists are responsible for providing the appropriate support and guidance needed to develop technology-infused learning experiences. In addition to this, one of the responsibilities of the technology integration teacher is to find ways to bring new technology into the school and "to provide ways around lack of funding," (Olah, Module 1 Lecture). There will always be difficulty with the budget and it is important for the technology integration teacher to look for other creative ways to bring in new technology.
The role of the technology integrator becomes increasingly important in a school when thinking about today's students and the lives that they lead. Today's students spend most of their free time using various devices that connect them to the outside world. These devices range from iPods and Smartphones to iPads and laptops. These electronic devices are an integral part of their every day lives and they are not going away. One study even indicates that, "by 2013, there will be 1.82 billion smartphones," (Marshall, 2011, p. 1). Thus, it is in the best interest of our students to incorporate these devices into their educational experiences. As educators, we must accept these devices into the learning environment and show students how they can be used for educational purposes. Unfortunately, as stated in the Module 1 lecture, most schools require students to turn off and put away these devices as they enter into the school building. This is like asking students to step into a time machine and go backwards. It seems as if a much more logical approach to this would be to embrace these devices and to teach students how to use them for educational purposes. Yet, I believe that in order to do this, teachers need to be guided and supported by the technology integration teacher in their school as well as by the administration in their district.
As a result of this, it is evident that the role of the technology integration teacher is extremely important to the success that a school experiences with technology integration.
References:
Marshall, G. (2011, April 16). How smartphones and tablets are taking over. TechRadar. Retrieved on March 30, 2014 from: http://www.techradar.com/news/mobile-computing/how-smartphones-and-tablets-are-taking-over-942724
Olah, D. Module One: Reviewing the Role of the Technology Integration Specialist (State/National Standards) EDU 642. Southern New Hampshire University.
Technology Photo. Retrieved on April 4, 2014 from: http://blog.techimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Technology.jpg
