Tool 9:  One thing to remember is that the technology is a tool.  It is a way for the students to access the information you want them to learn.  Technology is a part of our everyday lives.  We use it in all aspects of our life.  We need to tie technology in with our objective because the objective is the path we take to ensure mastery of the TEKS and the technology is part of how we will get there.  If it is not part of the objective, there is more room for misuse of the technology.  Holding students accountable for the use of the technology is critical (especially in the beginning) to ensure the students use it for its intended purpose.  Holding student accountable also lets you see if mastery of the subject matter is happening or if students are not grasping the concepts in your objective.  Assessment is always a key ingredient in all teaching.

PhET (pretty cool)