For 21st century teachers, using technology in the classroom has no longer become an option, but a requirement. As the students being taught continue to change, so do their educational needs. In order to provide best practices for technology integration in the classroom, teachers must integrate multiple strategies, keep up with new trends, and use the strategies they are most comfortable with. Although using new technologies can be somewhat intimidating for some teachers, they can also be used as a tool to bridge the gap between generations of students. After researching several educational articles about technology, most seem to emphasize the importance of using a variety of tools. classroom strategies. Teachers who integrate technology using the same methods and activities will eventually see student engagement. As new technologies develop, even more choices may become available. Currently, some of the best and most widely used strategies include: presentation tools, clickers, technology-based educational games, technology-based performance assessments, computer simulations, teacher websites, blogs, streaming video, wikis, etc. (Salend, 2009, pp. 49-54) In addition to engaging students, the use of these technological tools can help provide students with the skills they will need to succeed in a contemporary society. (Besnoy, 2006, p.34) Although there is a learning curve for any new technology, it can also offer great benefits. For example, the use of technology-based assessments and clickers not only quickly records and provides feedback on student performance, but also helps teachers identify problem areas that need to be addressed. Another strategy that can be very beneficial is the use of a computer simulation...... middle of paper ... and choose comfort zones. As we move into the 21st century, technology will continue to become a larger part of our lives. Fighting the use of technology is a losing battle that will only drive a wedge between teachers and students. Technology does not replace the importance of teachers, but rather is a tool for teachers to enhance the learning experiences of their students. Works Cited Besnoy, Kevin (2006). How can I do this? : Integrating websites into the gifted education classroom. The Gifted Child Today, 29(1), 28-34. Harvey-Woodall, Antionette (2009). Integrating Technology into the Classroom: What is its Impact on Student Achievement?, 1-10. Salend, Spencer J. (2009). Technology-based classroom assessments: Alternatives to testing. Teaching Exceptional Children, (July/August), 48-58.