My teacher went to a conference somewhere where some new, interactive technology was being modeled. There were three technologies that were being modeled: a Smart board, some 3D modeling technology, and a Smart Table.
The Smart board is in some classrooms already, but the expert who was modeling it demonstrated the different useful functions, such as 'multi-touch'. First of all, as a music teacher, a Smart board can be very beneficial in teaching theory and rhythm or even key signatures. Second, this 'multi-touch' feature would allow a teacher to create friendly competition between students. Personally, since I will be teaching high school band/music classes, I think using a music composition software in conjunction with the Smart board would be useful for a competition. It might be nice to see who can harmonize a melody faster, or more accurately. The Smart board/ composition software combo would be a very good way to show improvisation. I kind of like the idea of writing a melody on the spot without prior preparation.
Anyways, the 3D technology would be useful if you want to create your own instruments and/or take it apart without actually damaging the instrument. For instance, if a students wants to figure out how to re-string a French horn they can use this technology to figure out what string goes where and how it is attached to everything else before attempting it on their actual instrument. Side note: a student in my classroom should never, ever try to re-string a horn on their own. Take it to a professional, because there is less chance of irreparable damage. Like I said, this technology can be useful for looking at the interior of instruments (don't try it on an actual instrument!) or for designing new ones.
The Smart Table is more or less for cooperation and collaboration. I can't see a use for it in rehearsals or practicing, but composition is another matter entirely. Or if students need help with theory homework, they can collaborate with other students to figure out different ways of writing music without breaking any rules.
On an end note (no pun intended.... I don't think...), I think the Smart board would be the technology of choice in my classroom, but the Smart Table comes in a close second.
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