Critical Nature of Knowing Technology

As a pre-service teacher looking to get into the profession, I have realized the importance of knowing how to use modern technology in the classroom. In short, being comfortable using and aware of up to date technology can be the difference between getting a teaching job or not. There are many veteran teachers who do not feel comfortable using technology in the classroom. I have heard stories of teachers not even attempting to learn new technology.  For some teachers using email or google docs is sufficient enough. In their defense, why change success? They have taught for so long and not had to use it and their students have still learned the necessary material. However, administrators will be looking for teachers who can teach with 21st century tools. This means using mobile electronic devices, Smartboards, Elmo's, tablets, online videos, apps, etc. Your students will have experience using these electronics, so as teachers we must be able to tap into this resource. If we use a medium that all or most students are comfortable with it lessens the amount of scaffolding needing to be accomplished at the beginning of a lesson. Schools will need teachers that can teach using 21st century tools, as our students will be required more and more to use these tools in their future professions. As teachers, incorporating electronics devices can be the difference in motivating a student to accomplish their work. Who wants to use paper and pencil when they can use their touch screen tablet? Not today's youth. Looking back, I wish my teachers would have used up to date technology and now as I approach student teaching, I do not want to make the same mistake.