INTRODUCTION
Most schools will require teachers to incorporate computer use into the grade level curriculum. The new teacher may need assistance deciding how to do this on a daily basis. Some teachers are hesitant to introduce computer time into the classroom because they view this as a form of "free time" or they may not be confident in their own computing skills. However, when governed and lead properly, integrating computer time into the classroom will have several benefits.
Students gain word processing skills when learning to type: skills they will need in college and the workplace.
Working on computers fosters collaboration between students and between the student and teacher as they work together on projects.
Often leaders emerge who really enjoy computers and can help others, which is useful to classmates and the teacher.
Computer time promotes using higher order thinking skills and is a natural form of discovery through trial and error.
Computer time increases responsibility, independence and a sense of accomplishment.
Computers can reinforce instruction or are an assertive tool in the instruction through podcasts, video and multimedia.
