Teaching with technology: A case study of teachers\u27 perceptions of implementing computers into the classroom

Schools are acquiring computers and Internet access at rapid rates. Teachers need to learn how to operate the computers and integrate them effectively into their instruction. Understanding the process that teachers go through to infuse technology into their instruction is essential to help facilitate the successful integration of computers into classrooms. This is a descriptive case study of five teachers\u27 perceptions of the process of implementing technology into their teaching. The teachers\u27 thoughts were collected through a variety of data collection methods including interviews, observations of both class periods and planning sessions, and e-mail correspondence. Profiles of the context in which each of the teachers were working are described along with their perceptions of the process they have experienced in integrating technology into their instruction. Time and access issues are the overarching issues which computer integration is dependent upon. The time and access issues apply both to school and home settings for teachers. Integrating computers into their teaching takes so much time that teachers often feel like a first-year teacher rethinking, redesigning, and creating curriculum activities which utilize computer technology effectively within the classroom setting. Time and support need to be provided to teachers at the planning stage of the lesson. The time teachers have to practice and plan technology lessons is a critical factor in determining if computers will be used effectively to achieve instructional objectives. Teachers tend to learn by default rather than by design. They learn software applications and machine operating systems as they encounter tasks and glitches rather than through planned or guided instruction. Teachers perceive glitches as just a part of the process of using technology and perpetual in nature. However, teachers have varying amounts of control over solving glitches and can be held up anywhere from five minutes to five months depending on the situation. The computer is a complex teaching tool, however, teachers remain optimistic about its potential positive impact for students in the classroom