When I lived and taught in Nigeria, I felt completely confident in my technology skills. I was excellent with Excel, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, and even SPSS. I believed I was fully prepared for any global teaching environment.

But stepping into my teaching role in the United States opened my eyes. 

I quickly realized that while my foundation was strong, the world of educational technology was much bigger than I imagined. 

A New World of Digital Tools 

On assuming my role, I was introduced to several applications I had never used before yet I had to integrate them immediately into my teaching process. 

Some of these include:

• Schoology

• PowerBi 

• Skyward 

• Canvas

I thought I knew Excel well until I started learning features I had never used before. Using these tools daily stretched me, challenged me, and eventually helped me grow.

And as with anything you use consistently, expertise comes naturally. 

Over time, the same tools that felt overwhelming became part of routine.

Technology that Transforms Learning

Among all the tools I learned, Power Bi has been one of the most impactful. It allows me to: 

• Track student growth

• Identify achievement gaps between general education and special populations

• Analyze missed questions and performance patterns

With this data, I can restructure lessons, plan reteach sessions, and provide support that truly moves students forward. 

This is what technology should do, make teaching clearer and learning stronger.  

When students Have Limited Access to Technology

Many teacher worry about integrating tech because students may not have consistent internent or device access. But you can start small. 

Here are simple ways to introduce tech meaningfully:

• Create a slide using Canva or PowerPoint

• Ask students to write short article using Microsoft Word

• Use Excel during a basic math lesson 

• Incorporate short online tools during group work 

You don't need fancy devices or perfect internet. 

Just start with what is available. 

Start Small...But Start

Whether you're already great with technology or still finding your way, keep infusing it into your lessons. Every click builds confidence. Every attempt builds skill. 

A successful classroom is a dynamic classroom. 

Add technology in your own little way and watch your teaching transform.

Don't focus on the challenges. Focus on the beginning. 

Growth will meet you along the way.