How does the classroom of exemplary technology-using teachers differ from low technology using teachers?
The difference between the classrooms of exemplary users of technology and low technology users is the way their classes are conducted. For instance, in exemplary classrooms student use of learning technologies is woven integrally into the patterns of teaching. The technology is used as a vehicle of expression, communication, or analysis as opposed to an activity isolated from the main purpose of the class. Technology-using teachers use technology in different ways: drill and practice, tutorials, simulations, problem-solving and productivity tools. The types of instructional decisions they make are dependent on their knowledge of possible uses, availability and ease of use of the technology, and their instructional philosophy. As their philosophies change, as in restructured schools, the technologies and applications they use will also change. For example, teachers generally start with drill and practice and move to the tools approach. A 1992 study, by Herman et al., showed that use of
