The Partnership for 21st Century Skills urges schools to ensure that students exhibit a range of functional and critical thinking skills related to information, media and technology. To adequately prepare students for success in their working lives, educators integrate technology into schools to give students access to an abundance of information, enable them to feel at ease with rapid changes in technological tools, and cultivate the ability to collaborate on solutions to problems.

Computer Labs
Computer labs, mobile labs and computers in the classroom are the first step to ensuring students are familiar with information technology and the basics of how it operates. Computers can then be weaved into the curriculum as a tool to enhance educational outcomes by providing students with the methods and resources to research, evaluate and process new information. In addition, many schools are exploring the effectiveness of providing laptops to students on a loan basis, allowing them to use the computer both at home and school.

Real-World Experience
Effective technology integration provides students with a holistic understanding of the impact of technology. This is best achieved by offering students access to professionals in a variety of fields so they can see how technology can be used in education. In addition, technology integration into schools helps a student see a place for himself in the economy of the future. There are many avenues to offer this opportunity to students, such as internships, mentoring programs and field trips.

Media Literacy
A key part of technology integration is media literacy, characterized by the ability to access, evaluate and create with a variety of media content. This includes digital media, film, print and the art of storytelling. Educators have access to equipment -- computers, cameras, software -- and curricular support through organizations such as the Center for Media Literacy that aid in the development of the critical thinking and media production skills necessary for success in the 21st-century media culture.

Technology-Based Projects
In the workplace, technology is used as a tool to accomplish tasks and connect professionals. Effective technology integration in schools is aimed at preparing young people to actively participate in a similar manner in their future jobs. Technology-based projects challenge students to identify and accomplish a clearly articulated goal. In addition, they allows students to work in a collaborative environment that builds an understanding of how individual efforts can affect the results of a larger group.