The sea of available educational technology is in a state of constant flux, and around each turn are bright, shiny, *new* tools. There are Learning Management Systems (LMS), video capture solutions and web-conference, and tools to manage files and do word processing–and every tool plays a specific role  (it is just a matter of determining your end goal).

Regardless of the modality that you teach in, it is undeniable that technology can elevate a student’s learning experience, we can now gather resources to create virtual field trips to places like the Smithsonian Natural History or Guggenheim museums (and more), explore fieldwork from the field (no matter where our students are) and connect our students with networks and tools that can take them farther than ever before!

Due to the wealth of EdTech tools available, the obstacle for many instructors is not that tools are not available, but rather,  how to choose the right tools for their needs. How can we find the balance between integrating technology into our classrooms to enhance learning and creating a confusing learning environment where students spend more time learning how to use the tools that our content?

First ask yourself: what instructional need do I have?

It is easy to be lured into the trap of wanting to use tech tools when they come out because they are AWESOME, and can do so many cool new things!  However, it is best to go back to basics with course-design thinking and answer that question: “what do my students need to know or be able to do”, and let those needs guide your technology tool choice.

What does it allow students to do?

After you have determined your main need that technology may fulfill, you may start looking for a  technology solution or tool to meet that need’.  Assess what the tool will allow students to do–is that aligned with your instructional need?  Does it allow students to do something that they would not have been able to do (or do as easily) before?