Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid to Begin Integrating Classroom Technology

Change can be scary, and exponential change even more so. Such is the reality facing teachers as technology continues to develop a foothold in the modern classroom. But why should educators choose not to fear using technology in the classroom?

Surely there must be some solid compelling justifications for integrating classroom technology in your teaching practices. For that matter, is it even still a fear?

For some, yes, but for most it's far more of a practical professional concern. According to the education world, teachers can be resistant to embracing edtech for the following reasons:

• Time
• Class management
• Safety fears
• Support and help
• Adequate training

Whether or not teachers want to start integrating classroom technology, to not do so would ignore a profound mode of communication and learning for today’s digital native. At no other point in history does technology have more of a place in the modern classroom than today.

This all said, let's stay proactive about the question. What are some of the fears preventing teachers from integrating classroom technology and how can they overcome them? Let's explore the 5 listed above and discover more about how to get them working for you rather than against you when it comes to technology.

1. Time

This is the number one concern preventing many teachers from integrating classroom technology. After all, time is already precious in this profession. Technology often seems confusing and many teachers simply shy away, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Remember that the primary role of technology is to supplement learning. Don’t give up the tried-and-true strategies.

Assess what it is you already do and think of technology as just one more tool that you can use to enhance the teaching experience. In other words, technology should work seamlessly within any learning environment. If a certain tech tool will drive the point more solidly than any other medium, then you would be saving time in the long run.

Whether or not teachers want to start integrating classroom technology, to not do so would ignore a profound mode of communication and learning for today’s digital native. 

2. Classroom Management

When it comes down to class management, the addition of computers can add more stress if handled incorrectly. A well-planned strategy and layout can help alleviate awkward transitions. This is depending on how you will use tech, i.e. static computer workstations or students having access to tablets.

Whether you are moving students toward the computer stations or are passing out tablets to everyone, certainly you’ll have to establish a workable routine (starting computers up, logging in, solving network issues, etc.). The key again is seamless integration.

If you’re adopting classroom technology, make sure that the activity serves your learning objectives. In-depth training sessions in the beginning to establish routines will allow the process to run itself.

3. Safety Fears

Stories about the abuse of Internet technologies abound. This can certainly be a sticking point for teachers as well as parents. Rest assured security has come a long way, and IT specialists can help put up blocks for certain websites and prevent student data from falling into the wrong hands. It’s a good policy to never post names, personal information, and pictures together. 

Technology often seems confusing and many teachers simply shy away, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

4. Support and Help

There’s strength in numbers. If you’re new to integrating classroom technology, it may be daunting to have the responsibility of knowing more than the students. However, if you subscribe to teaching as empowerment rather than “being in power,” you can become a facilitator as students take ownership of their learning.

In many cases, you'll recognize which of your students can be an aid in teaching others. This might be a great way to get that seemingly uninterested kid to have an important role. On the staff end, having the right IT team is key as well. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—that’s what they are there for.

5. Adequate Training

As with any new tool, you want to become proficient enough so that it becomes second nature to use it. Just as a master carpenter would use a hammer without a second’s thought, so too will you be able to draw from your own tech tool belt with ease. Pick one tech tool and introduce it steadily and consistently.

Honestly, there really is no reason to exclude technology from your learning environment. As with all tools, users need to be trained in safety and proficiency. For younger students, you could certainly limit tech in the beginning. They are working their way in the world and need physical play and hands-on activities more than anything. As students get older, tech can play a significant role in fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and organization.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

Originally published Oct 31, 2017, updated Dec 10, 2021