What+role+does+technology+play,+and+do+we+currently+have+the+right+tech+platform?

Technology allows a broader scope of information to be both gathered and disseminated because of access and speed. Heavy and expensive physical textbooks and books can be replaced by e-books, video books, on-line journals, and other resources. More importantly, technology allows for a broader network of people to socially construct knowledge as well as provide a format for others to search, find, and gain from that knowledge. Working with websites such as wikispaces and googledocs allows collaboration to transcend the confines of physical space and global location.

Technology can be used as a powerful motivational tool that encourages and leads to more student engagement. Students begin to take ownership and feel a greater leverage over their learning as they seek out online coaching and informational programs. This process is empowering for students and helps to build their self esteem.

Technology does not help a student pass a 20th century tests, but it can help a student learn and build the skills needed to pass the type of challenges we face in the 21st century and the type of tests __we should be giving__ now.