Today, technology is on the rise in traditional classrooms. Children all over the world are advancing in areas such as mathematics due to the amazing advancement in technology. As the world becomes more reliant upon the many different technological forms, it becomes more and more important for children and youth to embrace technology with curious minds. “Technology integrations in mathematics classrooms is important to the field of education, not only because today’s society is becoming more and more advanced and reliant upon technology but also because schools are beginning to embrace technology as an essential part of their curricula.” (Tech in classroom)

The mathematics class has advanced far beyond the original calculators overflowing in classrooms before the mid 90’s. There are many different forms of technological devices that can be used in the mathematics classroom. Devices such as computers, web-based applications, interactive whiteboards, immediate response devices, and graphing calculators are very common to see when in a math classroom. (Tech in classroom) In most schools, using these devices in mathematics is not so much an option, but is actually expected in the classroom as a curriculum standard.

When we think about the typical elementary math classroom, we think about the typical math class, we picture students sitting quietly in their straight row desks, using paper and pencils to grasp the vast concepts of mathematics. The new generation of math students, are given to opportunity to move far beyond the traditional methods of learning math. “Technology is essential in teaching and learning mathematics; it influences the mathematics that is taught and enhances students learning.” (Beliefs about Teaching) Technology is a way to differentiate a math classroom. It allows students to dive into math concepts by practicing diverse learning styles. There are times when students need to look at concepts in more untraditional ways. When technology is used in the classroom, “Some lessons require students to experiment with certain mathematical objects, and see how they respond, while some cover visual representations- graphs, diagrams, geometric figures, moving images- that respond to students’ questions, answers, or commands. (Thinking and talking, 1)

Technology such as computer programs, calculators and interactive whiteboards can be used throughout every grade, starting with kindergarten. Though it can be used in younger grades, the stronger need for technology becomes greater as grade levels progress and math concepts become harder. “In the early grades, physical manipulatives often provide the visual and experimental support that children need for mathematic comprehension to occur.” (Thiking and talking) Manipulatives are easily introduced as stand-ins for different mathematical ideas. “Objects students’ see with their hands while they learn to see and manipulate with the mathematical ideas using their minds, eyes, and hands” are wonderful for learning math, but not all math student are able to use these traditional manipualtives (such as pattern blocks) to demonstrate the math concepts they are studying. (Thinking) Many older students are not given this opportunity because they math concepts they are studying are too advanced. In these more advanced classes, computers can provide, “virtual manipulatives where physical devices do not exist.” (Thinking)