Why Integrate Technology Into The Curriculum?

In class today, Professor Glassman asked us what place does technology have in school. I agree with a lot of what you all were saying, that there should be a curriculum that incorporates technology into the classroom but it should not be used without a foundation of learning the concepts of whatever lesson is being taught.As far as the calculator debate today, students should definitely not rely on a calculator, the basics need to be learned first and simple math should be able to be done in our heads or on paper.
Technology should not always be used as shortcuts in life and I think it's important to apply that when teaching with technology. We should want to use our brains still and not completely rely on machines and technology. (Has anyone seen WALL-E?) I thought of all the technology they had and how it made them lazy and dependent on it.

Anywho, I wanted to look into why it is important to integrate technology in the classroom and came across this article. I liked this article because it gives an obvious reason that is a great argument on its own. The fact that our world is advancing in technology, requires us to get involved. Learning how to use technology is beneficial in keeping current with the world and our studies. The article states that when properly used, technology will help students acquire the skills they need to survive in a complex, highly technological knowledge-based economy. The article also says that technology changes the way teachers teach, offering educators effective ways to reach different types of learners and assess student understanding through multiple means.

Do you agree? Or can technology in the classroom pose as a distraction? Should teachers be required to teach with technology and be familiar with how to use it?