As school spending on new computer technologies mushrooms, 21st-century educators are challenged to find sound and sensible ways of using these remarkable new tools to improve classroom practice. Some questions they face: Are handheld computers and web courses worth the investment? How can new technologies be used to form strong home-school connections? How can they enhance global understanding and transform education for special-needs students? What websites and software are most helpful? How can teachers combat Internet plagiarism?

In this collection, educators and researchers at the frontiers of innovation explore fresh ways of harnessing the power of new technologies to improve teaching and learning. Rich examples from real classrooms show what works in today's climate of heightened standards and accountability. Contributors include Edwin Gragert, James Moore, David Niguidula, Cathleen A. Norris, Andrea Oseas, Kristi Rennebohm Franz, Michael Sadowski, Eliot Soloway, Julie M. Wood, and Louise Yarnall.

"This book is a must-read primer on the fast-changing landscape of educational technology in our schools. Its lucid accounts from both practitioners and researchers answer the big-picture question of 'Where is the field heading?' as well as the more immediate 'What should a teacher do Monday morning?' Better Teaching and Learning in the Digital Classroom charts a path to help achieve the goal of its title." -- Milton Chen, Executive Director, The George Lucas Educational Foundation

"This unique and timely book answers multiple questions regarding the efficacy and use of technology to improve teaching and learning. All teachers will find something of use in this volume. a wise principal would purchase this book as an indispensable tool for in-school technology discussions." -- Milli Pierce, Former Director, The Principals' Center, Harvard Graduate School of Education

David T. Gordon is editor of the Harvard Education Letter, the award-winning publication about K-12 education, and the book The Digital Classroom: How Technology Is Changing the Way We Teach and Learn.

Better Teaching and Learning in the Digital Classroom is essential reading for any education professional or parent who wants to make the most of what the newest technologies have to offer.

School spending on new computer technologies has mushroomed in recent years, as educators try to find every strategic advantage to improve teaching and learning in a high-stakes climate. But does the payout justify the payoff? Can such powerful new tools really make a difference in classroom practice? If so, what must teachers do to truly transform instruction with technology rather than simply dress up old practices in high-tech packaging?

In this follow-up to the bestseller The Digital Classroom: How Technology Is Changing the Way We Teach and Learn, educators and researchers from the frontlines of technological and educational innovation explore fresh ways of harnessing the power of new technologies to improve teaching and learning. Rich examples from real classrooms give readers specific ideas of what works in today's classrooms, offered in a context of tougher standards and increased accountability pressures.

Topics include:

• Home-School Engagement: Using Technology to Build Learning Connections among Teachers, Parents, and Students
• Multiple Literacies: Building New Skills for a New Millennium
• PDAs, Laptops, Wireless, and What's Coming Next: Making Sure the Payout Justifies the Payoff
• What Works Best in Distance Learning?
• Digital Portfolios and Assessments: Ways Technology Improves
• How We View and Judge Student Work
• Professional Development: How Virtual Environments Support the Unique Needs of Teachers and Administrators.
• How Can I Tell Which Websites and Software Work Best?
• Teaching after 9/11: Using Technology to Create Global Understanding and Connections
• Case Studies: "How Technology Changed My Practice"