Technology

I never realized how much I truly depend on technology in my classroom until I am unable to use it. Today for instance, my computer was infected with a virus that would only allow me to sign up and pay for the protection that this spyware virus was promoting. I was unable to use the internet, pull up any of my documents, or send e-mails. Things that I do on a daily basis. Though I have hard copies of worksheets, most of the materials that I use I keep an electronic copy of so I am able to print as needed right to my room instead of having to go to make copies. It has also become a routine to my students using technology. In my reading class everyday, we take 5 minutes to practice fluency. Many times this is completed by listening to a CD on the computer to the story being read fluently. Students practice their spelling through online websites for reinforcement activities. Students have become accustomed to taking AR tests on books that they have completed reading.
Today, without the use of technology in the classroom, my students and I felt like we had to be extra creative in ways to complete our tasks. I understand that technology is becoming more available therefore further integrated into the classroom, but when do we become too dependent on technology? Can we use technology too much in the classroom so students don't know how to function without it?