Despite technologies available in schools, a substantial number of teachers report that they do not use computers and other technologies regularly for instruction. While technology is not a panacea for all educational ills, today's technologies could be essential tools of the teaching trade. A majority of teachers report feeling inadequately trained to use technology resources, particularly computer-based technologies. Although many teachers see the value for students learning about computers and other technologies, some are not aware of the resources technology can offer them as professionals in carrying out the many aspects of their jobs. Although some schools have made progress in helping teachers use basic technological tools such as word processing, they still struggle with curriculum integration, which is central if technology is to become a truly effective educational resource.
Technology can be a valuable resource for improving teacher education.
It can bring models of the best teaching live from the classroom into the colleges of education, or provide video case studies of teaching styles and approaches. It can forge stronger connections among student teachers, mentor teachers in the field, and university faculty. Despite the importance of technology in teacher education, it is not central to the teacher preparation experience in most U.S. colleges of education today. Most new teachers graduate from teacher preparation institutions with limited knowledge of the ways technology can be used in their professional practice. The federal government has played a limited role in technology- related teacher development compared with states, universities, and school districts.