When I think of my own experience with technology in the classroom, this image comes to mind:
I remember playing endless Oregon Trail games on one of the two computers that were in our classroom. I realize that I am far removed from what students are doing today, but I still asked myself, why would it be so important to integrate more technology? I made it through a good portion of my education without it and appear to have succeeded (in some aspect). I know the answer should be yes when asked if we should integrate technology into the classroom, but I didn't know why.
The reality is, I barely had to Google search for my answer before finding numerous articles on the web that give plenty of reasons "why". What I wasn't grasping was the fact that we live in a very modern time. Well, I understand that technology is part of our lives, and that I use it constantly, but I never thought of it as a tool to use in class. It seemed like a foreign concept to me because, again, I think of my youth and watching the teacher struggle with the bootleg projector for 20 minutes, only to show us something that was quick and not particularly helpful.
The difference is that technology is so much more than computer software. It should "support four key components of learning: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real-world experts" (Source) Technology is about building skills and preparing students for their future careers which will most likely involve the four components previously listed.
What is also interesting is that the current students are most likely people who were born and raised in a completely digital world. Leading 21st Century Schools, refers to these people as Digital Natives. They would benefit so much by learning through programs (or wikis, blogs, podcasts) that they already are proficient using outside of class. Students may try harder if they were in their comfort zone.
I think that if teachers are educated in different forms of technology, it will help them (us?) reach these "Digital Natives". However, I do not fully agree with ridding the classroom of all pencils and paper. I still believe that students can read from textbooks, take notes, and still learn. I think that adding in technology will just round out an education.
You've made a good point that classroom computer use ought to promote collaboration and be meaningful to the real world. Just having students perform tasks by themselves doesn't cut it. I also agree that pencils, paper and textbooks still have a place in school; after all, they too are forms of technology.
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