Technology skills sparks success: A study of best practices for teachers and the effective integration of technology in the K--12 classroom environment

This dissertation answered the inquiries of the author regarding the presence of best practices for the teachers inside the K-12 classroom environment and the effective ways to integrate technology into the methods of teaching to achieve valuable learning outcomes. It was reflected in the research that effectual educational technology training programs were not available on a large scale to train the teachers at the K-12 curriculum level. This study, intended to contribute some knowledge that can be used for developing new ways on the smooth integration of technology into the classrooms of pedagogical and andragogical learning. A discussion of motivation and learning theories were presented. A mixed-methodology approach, specifically the sequential explanatory strategy was used for the collection, assessment, and analysis of data to support the competencies framework proposed by the author of this study that will enable teachers to incorporate technology into their instruction. The author presented the findings surrounding the most effective strategies towards the advancement and production of best practices towards technology integration into the classrooms. Many scholars have agreed that technology plays a major role in education and in the advancement of academia in all fields of learning from the primary grades to the higher education. Present teachers as well as future teachers who participated in this study indicated a strong desire towards embracing the use of technology into their practice and expanding their skills through continuous collaboration by attending professional development courses. Technology and innovations will continue to advance and play significant role inside the classrooms requiring new designs to accommodate the new generation of learners who expect high quality instruction. Enhancing student learning outcomes is a priority among school administrators who labor patiently in perfecting their technology plans to provide their students sound and effective methods of teaching.