The portion of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act known as Enhancing Education Through Technology Act of 2001 requires all students to be technology literate by the time they finish the 8th grade. The earlier the child begins his technology education, the more technology literate he will be when he finishes the 8th grade. Not only will the student gain enough knowledge to be considered technology literate, he will be better prepared for a technology-rich future. The amount of technology experience the student acquires throughout his education depends on two areas. The first area is the school or district budget for technology. The second area is the comfort level the teacher has with the technology.

Classrooms Using Technology
Technology can be an exciting tool for instruction and student learning. Using technology properly in the classroom will help increase student engagement and build rigor and relevance in the lesson objectives. Early elementary students begin with the basics in technology and build their skills through the years to meet the middle school expectations. Teachers in the elementary grades should expose and introduce software, hardware and peripheral devices to their students as soon and as often as possible to help maintain interest and excitement.

Incoporating Technology into Teaching
Integrating technology can start of slowly with a simple, teacher lead, presentation with a digital projector and grow to student-led presentations. A document camera can be used to view student work, important documents, pictures or other visual aids. When using student work, do not include the name of the student unless you have spoken to the student before hand. Another way to integrate technology into the classroom is using technology activities with the students. Introduce the students to more than drill and kill software programs. Programs, such as Kidspiration for younger students and Inspiration for older students, will help students visualize words, numbers and concepts.

Internet Use
One popular way to use technology in the classroom is through the use of the Internet. The Internet is a great teaching tool and must not be taken for granted. Students and parents should sign an Internet Use Agreement, and agreement that gives parental permission for their child to have Internet privileges and what will happen if the student breaks the rules.

Student Safety
Students should be monitored at all times while on a computer, not just the Internet. Internet filters are not without flaws, and students can and do get around school such filters. Teaching students appropriate use of the Internet and being proactive by having discussions on the responsible use of the Internet will help create positive experiences for teacher and student.

Students
Today's students are motivated by technology. Technology is a part of their everyday lives. Using technology in the classroom will help keep the students motivated and interested in their education.