Teaching in the 21st Century- Challenges and Opportunties

Educators today are bombarded with choices when it comes to integrating technology in K-12 learning environments. At a time when many teachers are nearing retirement, it can sometimes feel like the students are more proficient with available tools. What training is needed to help get these "technophobic" teachers up to speed, and how can administration best support teachers when it comes to using technology with students? Providing Chromebooks and iPads is not enough, teachers need guidance when it comes to integrating technology in learning environments.
This week I experimented with using Google Classroom for the first time. Although my 5th graders were able to log on to their Google accounts and take a short survey after adding my class with a class code, when it came to trying to get the 4th graders on it was total chaos! Many did not know their log in credentials, and were confused about accessing the assignment. I have taken an approach of diving in head first in terms of integrating tech in my classes, but for many teachers an experience like this could turn them off to Google Classroom in general. Training in the use of Google Classroom could ultimately make a teacher's life easier in terms of reducing paper usage and streamlining grading. Teachers who are implementing tech for the first time with students may need a second person with experience in the classroom to support students with logging on the first time.
Unfortunately, many public schools are short staffed, and may not have someone knowledgable about tech integration available to support teachers. Schools need to be careful to not just purchase hardware, but also to invest in training and support for teachers looking to enhance instruction and motivate students using technology.
At a time when education is rapidly changing, teachers need to be mindful of so much. As someone who used to really fear using technology, and feel that it made everything harder, I'm hoping that by learning more about it that I will be in a position to improve my instruction, and support other teachers.