Technology in the classroom enhances a teacher's ability of to enrich instruction and improve visuals and displays. Display technologies allow teachers to show videos, presentations and educational software to the entire classrooms. For example, the use of interactive whiteboards has replaced traditional chalkboards and dry-erase boards in many classrooms. Whiteboards connect to a computer or tablet providing direct interaction with the Internet or other software. Teachers and students draw and write directly into presentations and programs, allowing for specialized editing opportunities. In addition, teachers record audio and video of their lessons using the whiteboard then post the lesson online for students and parents to view on their own time.
Teachers need to meet the learning needs of all students by circulating around the classroom and observing student progress. Assessing student learning is essential to ensuring high levels of student achievement. Technology systems that allow teachers to assess students at any given point during a lesson greatly enhance productivity. For example, using individual handheld devices -- smartphones, tablets or specialized response systems -- students answer questions and add to discussion at their own pace allowing individualized student learning. The student’s individual responses display on the teacher's tablet or computer allowing teachers to assess student understanding instantly.
Communication between teachers, students and parents is a standard part of ensuring high achievement. Technology advances broaden a teacher’s ability to keep parents and students updated on curriculum and learning, moving communication beyond the limits of the school building. Teachers may use tools such as email, websites or student management software to keep parents updated on student progress, curriculum updates and classroom news. In addition, teachers and students collaborate with colleagues to gain deeper understanding of topics. With distance learning opportunities available online, teachers take students on field trips and link with other classrooms around the world.
Students and teachers benefit from support technology, such as tools that allow students with hearing or sight impairments to use assistive technologies in the classroom. These devices adapt classroom materials to fit the needs of students. For example, voice recognition software allows students to type and control computer functions by speaking into a microphone. In addition, scanners and optical character recognition software allows teachers to convert worksheets into audio files for students who are blind or visually impaired.