Trends and issues related to technology integration The use of computers in classrooms has evolved over the years and has become revolutionary in changing the way we teach and learn. Our classrooms should no longer be confined between four walls and a few teachers considered experts in knowledge. Our classrooms must keep up with a changing society and a new world that depends on technology. When students graduate, they need the technology skills to thrive in a world where technology dictates the pace. Society expects the school system to produce functional citizens who have the skills to gain gainful employment and are not a burden on the system. Computers have been in schools since the 1960s, but they were not used to the same capacity they are used in. Today. The use of computers is still expanding and the future of education will be very exciting when the full extent of this revolutionary phenomenon is understood. In the 1960s computers were not widespread, and most people educated in this decade hardly remember them at all. In the 1970s, computers became smaller and less expensive, but schools still didn't use them much for much of the decade. From the end of the seventies the use of computers in schools began to increase. The students began to have hands-on experience. In less than a decade, computer use went from programming lessons for some of the best students, to literacy lessons for all students, to the integration of computers and technology into the curriculum. Now, teachers aim to use technology as a tool to teach more effectively using a variety of strategies to meet the different needs in a diverse classroom. This will require training and commitment to keep up in a rapidly changing industry, but the benefits for teachers and students outweigh the effort needed to stay informed; computers increase student productivity and make learning a fun experience. They help students become better problem solvers rather than just rote learners. By the time a student is in middle school they should be able to use software tools such as word processing, databases, spreadsheets, and telecommunications. But the computer can be used for much more. The computer can be used as a tutor or for research on any topic. As a tutor, the computer...... middle of paper......; it should not be a tool to divide society. The opportunity to learn more effectively should be offered to all students regardless of economic situation. The ability to use technologies that locate and utilize information is a critical skill. If the economy is a factor that prevents some students from learning these skills, society as a whole will suffer. All schools must be equipped to teach in the most effective way; this means they need technology and teachers who know how to use it. Technology is expensive. Federal funds do not cover expenses and funds are always at risk of being cut. That leaves local schools and districts to fill the gap. People need to be aware of expenses and work together to generate funds. Alliances and partnerships with corporations and small businesses are one way to obtain equipment. Costs may also be shared by local civic groups, school districts and individuals. If people band together, they will have a better chance of competing for foundation money.