Stages of Technology Integration

In class this week, we discussed the various stages of development that teachers go through while learning about and incorporating technology into their classrooms.  The stages were determined through a study conducted by Apple.  Apple identified the following five stages of technology integration; Entry, Adoption, Adaptation, Appropriation and Innovation.  In homage to Apple, I've included this picture of an Apple IIc.  It's just a little reminder of how far home technology has come since this study began in 1985.

In my current line of work, all of my coworkers are compelled to use computers as a part of our day to day work.  As a result, most of the people I work with, whether they like it or not, must continually rely on technology to do their day to day work.  However, beyond the computer, many in my office have not integrated technology into their daily tasks.  Most of them are in the Adoption phase.  They use technology that eases their work load, like email, but most of them feel encumbered by technology.  You often hear them reluctant to use additional technology because they fear it won't work.

Two of my coworkers are in the Adaptation phase of technology integration.  Whenever they have an opportunity to use funds on technology advancement, they relish the chance.  They are always showing off their newest toy, looking to upgrade their year-old gadgets, but they never seem to be integrating these tools into their daily work routine.

Personally, I have a hard time pinpointing what stage I am in with technology integration, mostly because I am just beginning to learn about new tools.  However, if I had the funds to invest in new technology, I could easily see myself in the Adaptation phase.  Since I grew up with a lot of technology in my house, I am not necessarily intimidated to dive into new tools.  However, I could easily see myself embracing many different gadgets out of sheer excitement and interest.

The final phase, Innovation, is a very interesting and important stage to reach.  Of course, innovation should always be the goal but I think the road takes a lot of trial and error.  Just thinking over the technology we have reviewed in the last two weeks of class, I am inspired.  However, the real test will be whether I can put them to good use once I'm in a classroom of my own. 

Baker, E., Gearhart, M., & Herman, J. Apple, (1990). Apple classrooms of tomorrow research (7). Retrieved from UCLA Center for Technology Assessment website: http://www.apple.com/nl/images/pdf/acotlibrary/rpt7.pdf

[Photograph of Apple IIc]. Retrieved September 9, 2012 from http://www.stylingyou.com.au/2011/09/how-to-blog-your-way-to-your-first-or-next-job/