Instructional Technology for 21st Century Learners

As a school administrator and instructional leader I would expect to see instructional technology used that coincides with the curriculum and standard expectations. The instructional technology should also help general and special education students gain full access to instruction and enhance learning in classrooms.
To meet the needs of all learners in the 21st century I would incorporate instructional technology that students may use daily and make it useful to their education. The use of blogs, computer programs, interactive learning tools, and other traditional strategies would be useful in reaching all learners and help maintain student interests.
Through the written curriculum students can use technology to practice handwriting through "Writing without Tears", teaching general writing techniques through interactive games, and practice Reading strategies using Imagination Station. Students can also use instructional technology by using computer Word programs to write an electronic journal. Students could also use supervised blogs for writing lesson reflections. Books on CD and modified reading materials presented on smart boards would also be helpful in reaching learners with special needs.
Teachers can use instructional technology tools such as smart boards to demonstrate lesson information and to assess what is learned.
I use board maker, Istation, Study Island, and a Smart board in my classroom. My students use the smart board during morning meetings to identify time concepts, practice previously learned skills, and to practice journal writing. It serves as a visual representation of what is usually written on paper or on a chalkboard. The smart board allows interactive learning and it keeps them engaged with the pictures and multiple functions. My students seem to use the smart board tools more effectively than paper and pencil materials. The smart board also helps meet my students sensory needs. I would also promote using computer programs such as Isation, Starfall, and Study Island. These programs help students practice what they've learned, assess what they have retained, and it automatically tracks data to monitor their progress.
As suggested by Jacobs, I would incorporate graphic organizers to help with comprehension and understanding difficult concepts. Lessons would be derived from themes to help students see the broader picture and how small concepts apply to one idea. Venn diagrams with pictures could also be used to help students with special needs compare and contrast and gain a better understanding of differences and similarities. Students can complete these activities using smart boards and projectors.
Meeting the needs of 21st century learners involves being mindful of all learning styles and meeting students where they are in order to bring them to where you want them to be.