IS THIS THING ON?

Technology is a great tool for enticing student motivation, but it can also be a persuasive reason for educator frustration. Being aware of the technology available and knowing how to use it will eliminate a lot of technology hurdles. Additionally, many students are familiar with technology tools; don't be afraid to ask them to help you install, start, destroy, or fix using technology.

Scenario: No WWW?
This was the battle cry of the cohort when we were informed that the Internet would not be available for us at Crosswinds. We could try to battle for spots in the one computer lab, but most of us gave up a great deal of media activities because of the lack of available technology. Frustrating still was the lack of concern by Crosswinds staff for this oversight: we were promised Internet and personal laptop use, then denied it four days before our lesson plans were due. We ultimately smuggled, bartered, and sold our way into technology use at Crosswinds. The outcome of this situation: technology can motivate a great number of students, but the lack of technology can disengage an even larger number of pre-service teachers!