Technology is amazing and has been changing education and classrooms for decades. It is truly everywhere, but that also means that there is a ton of options - some are life changing, some are garbage. It takes time to wade through the sea of resources, sorting trash from treasure. Do teachers have time for that? NO.

Then you have dorks, like me, who enjoying exploring new tools and how to use them effectively. Don't use technology for technology's sake. It must be purposeful! When looking at a new tool, I ask myself three questions?

• Will this increase engagement? One of the perks of technology, is that kids are EXCITED about it. Let's be honest - we've all done some crazy, goofy (and exhausting) things to hold students' attention and involve them in the learning process.

• Will this enhance learning? Critical thinking, problem solving, and depth of knowledge are important to the learning process. Practice and quick feedback help solidify concepts.

• Will this enrich the teacher's life? Technology should be making your life easier. Saving you time, helping you organize, making tasks more manageable. Now, sometimes we have to judge this from a long term perspective. Most of the time, there is time and work up front that pays off in the long run. With this question, I also think about enriching our lives economically. The best things in life are free......but sometimes you get what you pay for. If I suggest a "paid-for" tool - I think it's worth it.