Smart Classroom Technology

I wouldn’t say that I am technologically advanced, (as witnessed by my complete ignorance of MOO), but I don’t feel that I am a complete novice when in regards to technology, either. In regards to teaching style, I have become a firm believer in technology in the classroom. During my first semester teaching, I did not have a smart classroom, and I had no idea how helpful that technology could be. During my second semester, I realized the joy of my classroom helper, and have now decided that the smart classroom is the GREATEST INVENTION EVER! However, I have heard a (small) number of people say that the smart classroom technology is a crutch. I completely disagree with this assessment, not only because it makes my job easier, but because the students respond well to the technology. Rather than killing more trees, I can now show examples on the screen, and I can use this technology to show students how to do web searches, show them youtube clips, etc., without ever leaving my classroom. This technology has enhanced my teaching style immeasurably. I don’t believe that I excessively rely on it, but I don’t want to be left without it, either. Our students are arguably more tech savvy than we are, and ignoring these tools at our disposal would be a disservice to the students and their learning styles.