the impact of various technology tools you encounter on the teaching and learning process

Schools are investing in computers and connecting buildings and classrooms to the Internet at a rapid rate. Agencies from local school districts to state legislatures have designated funding for schools to acquire technology for information access to benefit teaching and learning. As a result of the infusion of technology into schools, many inservice teachers are being asked to rethink and redesign their instructional methods to utilize these new tools. Some teachers have been excited and motivated by the challenge of infusing technology into their classroom lessons, but the majority of teachers seem to need encouragement, modeling, and technical training to infuse technology into their daily teaching strategies (Sasan Guy).

the relevance of having knowledge of the different technology related learning theories

According to Sianjina (2000)Teachers need to use a variety of teaching activities in their classrooms, and that
variety should include technology whenever appropriate. Technology can be used not only
as an information management tool, but also as a means of reaching students of diverse
backgrounds.

Technology exists in classrooms not just for the sake of its presence, but also to enhance the learning process.
In a study conducted by Iding, Crosby, and Speitel (2002), pre-service teachers reported
using computers for their own personal use were at least moderately proficient with
computers, and had access to computers at schools and in individual classrooms, and were
interested in learning more about using computers and technology for instructional and
educational purposes.

Scheffler and Logan (1999) emphasize that integrating technology not only involves
the attainment of computer skills but also consists of a process in which learners try, fail,
access, evaluate, analyze and apply meaningful tasks including but not limited to
researching, analyzing data, applying and representing knowledge, communication and
collaborating. Thus, the integration of technology into education means using it as a tool to
teach subject matter, and to promote problem-solving and higher-order thinking skills. It is
neither computer literacy nor computer awareness. It means using the computer where it is
the best medium to support the learning goal

the importance of technology integration in the teaching/learning process

curriculum integration with the use of technology involves the infusion of technology as a tool to enhance the learning in a content area or multidisciplinary setting
Effective integration of technology is achieved when students are able to select technology tools to help them obtain information in a timely manner, analyse and synthesize the information, and present it professionally.
Computers can help teachers and students find old information (for example from the Library of Congress Web site) and new information from thousands of sites on the Internet that are updated daily. (Valmont and Wepner, 2000, p. 8)

The integration of learning technologies into high school classrooms is being promoted and supported around the world. Underlying the promotion and support are claims that successful integration will lead to enhanced learning outcomes (DoE, 1998). Students’ perceptions were found to influence the success of integration, specifically the amount of technology use, the ways in which the technology was used, and teachers’ and students’ expectations about learning. Teachers’ perceptions of learning technologies and influence on students’ perceptions have not been studied recently. To further understanding, our study investigated experienced teachers’ perceptions of learning technologies. The research also considered the likely impact of teachers’ perceptions on students’ perceptions and, consequently, on the integration of learning technologies into classrooms.

Technology, when integrated into the curriculum, revolutionizes the learning process. More and more studies show that technology integration in the curriculum improves students' learning processes and outcomes. Teachers who recognize computers as problem-solving tools change the way they teach. They move from a behavioural approach to a more constructivist approach. Technology and interactive multimedia are more conducive to project-based learning. Students are engaged in their learning using these powerful tools, and can become creators and critics instead of just consumers.

Technology helps change the student/teacher roles and relationships: students take responsibility for their learning outcomes, while teachers become guides and facilitators. Technology lends itself as the multidimensional tool that assists that process. For economically disadvantaged students, the school may be the only place where they will have the opportunity to use a computer and integrate technology into their learning

There is a growing body of evidence that technology integration positively affects student achievement and academic performance. The center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET) found that, when used in collaborative learning methods and leadership that is aimed at improving the school through technology planning, technology impacts achievement in content area learning, promotes higher-order thinking and problem solving skills, and prepares students for the workforce.