Planning with Technology

Students may have barriers to accessing educational content in one or more networks: strategic, affective, and recognition networks. These are actual networks in the brain:

Although, teachers cannot use brain imaging to identify which networks may be under active, they can use assessments and observation to identify students' strengths and weaknesses. Teachers can match up the strengths and weaknesses assessed to the different networks and determine which technologies would best address their needs. We have a large technological tool belt at our disposal, but we have to make sure the methods we choose meet the diverse needs of our learners. Luckily, many of the technologies we use have features that activate multiple networks. One such technology is the SMART board. It allows a teacher to manipulate the presentation of information so that students are using multiple sensory modalities to access the information (recognition network). It allows for multiple means of interaction and engagement (strategic network). Additionally, using interactive lessons with media is highly motivating for most students (affective network). 
It is important for teachers to use technology with purpose. We may inadvertently complicate a lesson or make it less accessible by trying to incorporate technology, so we must always reflect on the needs of the students and how the technology will address those needs.