Blog #6 Technology in the classroom

After conducting some research on the use of technology in the classroom, I was surprised to read that there has been little research done on the benefits of technology and writing. There was a handful of sources on technology and math, but very few on writing. If any were available they were very old, and I believe that many teachers have created and discovered many possible ways to integrate technology into their writing lessons (other than the use of powerpoint). I have noted that when I incorporate social media (Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook) into my classrooms, and use e-journals (through google docs), the interest level of my students rise and their writing enhances. Students use technological devices all the time, they send text messages, emails, and share posts that have writing in them. Students are writing constantly throughout their day, they may not be writing academically, but to me it is like free writing. I believe that technology can be integrated into the classroom effectively, but many teachers will argue the contrary. There are teachers that do not allow students to use their phones, laptops, and other technological devices because they fear that it will distract students from learning. What do you think? Do you use technology in your classrooms, if so what devices/programs do you recommend?