There are many reasons to integrate technology into instruction and learning in the classroom.  Here are 3 that I think are important for teachers to understand.

1. Learning with technology can increase opportunities for student choice and the development of critical thinking skills.  When students have a computing device with Internet access available to them in the classroom, they can access numerous resources for finding information and tools for creating products that show what they have learned.  The multitude of choices cause them to think critically about the best tools for the task and the ideal project to show their learning.

2. Technology allows students to create things within authentic, real-world contexts.  With access to the Internet, students can engage with experts and contribute to online conversations about topics related to the curriculum or their interests.  They are given opportunities to realize that what they learn in school has application beyond the classroom, and they can share their projects with a global audience.

3. Technology integration can start small.  Teachers don't have to infuse their entire curriculum with technology overnight.  It's okay to start with one or two small steps to discover what works well and what doesn't.  As they take small steps, teachers will gain confidence and begin using technology in lessons more frequently until technology integration is a natural part of the lesson-planning process.