As we consider integrating technology into our math lessons, we have to think about whether it will improve students’ learning. We need to be strategic and purposeful about when and how to integrate technology, rather that simply integrating technology for the sake of using it.

Guiding Documents

NCTM’s Position Statement, “Strategic Use of Technology in Teaching and Learning Mathematics” (2015)

Principles to Actions (2014) lists, as a guiding principle, the integration of Tools and Technology, writing “An excellent mathematics program integrates the use of mathematical tools and technology as essential resources to help students learn and make sense of mathematical ideas, reason mathematically, and communicate their mathematical thinking. Available tools and technology help teachers and students visualize and concretize mathematics abstractions, and when these resources are used appropriately, they support effective teaching and meaningful learning.”

Ideas and Resources for Strategic Integration

We can use technology for the development of mental models and conceptual understanding.

• Math Learning Center Free Apps
  https://www.mathlearningcenter.org/resources/apps
• PHET Interactive Simulations
  https://phet.colorado.edu/

We can use technology for problem solving. For example, we can take the computation out to make room for deeper thinking.

We can use technology for communication and organization.

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