Monday, February 20, 2012

Technology in the Classroom


One of today's "Hot Topics" in education is the use of technology in the classroom. The term "technology" encompasses a wide array of learning tools, including computers, Smart Boards, iPads, Kindles, and interactive videos. In some schools, the push for technology is overwhelmingly clear; each student uses an iPad on a daily basis, and entire lessons are given with the aid of a Smart Board. Other schools, however, lack the funding necessary for technology. Does this mean the students cannot learn

Some school administrators argue that the increasing use of technology in the modern-day classroom is inevitable: No longer can teachers rely on traditional chalkboard learning. Today's students, who grow up in the age of the internet, learn best through the engaging, interactive nature of technology-based learning. These administrators push for educational games, simulation-based learning, and even social media as a means to teach material in new ways. 

Others see the opposite. For teachers and administrators who do not see the need for technology, this kind of learning can be distracting and counterproductive. School computers are not used for educational purposes, students use iPads to surf the web, and textbooks suddenly become absent. Real learning does not depend on advanced technology. 

Is technology in the classroom a necessity? 

5 comments:

  1. I think technology can be very beneficial. With a Smart Board in class, the teacher can do more research on a topic and make a better presentation. But at the same time, both the teacher and students become tempted to take that technology and use it for personal use. I think that as new teachers we should definitely become acquainted with new forms of technology in the classroom, like I need to learn how to use a Smart Board because Chaminade High School did not use Smart Boards. I also know that some high schools are offering their students iPads and getting rid of textbooks. I think that is a good idea but it needs to be monitored properly.

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    1. We agree - it is essential that teachers be familiar with technology, especially if a school is requiring its usage. Technology can be an invaluable learning tool if used correctly. Thank you for sharing!

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  2. The use of technology in the classroom is definitely a hot topic in education because of its many benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, we live in an increasingly technological world and in order to prepare students for successful futures they need to be technologically competent individuals who are familiar with all the different technology—computers, cell phones, Skype, Smart Boards, etc. -- that play a significant role in everyday life. Technology also has the capability, allowing to students to learn in new and innovative ways. For example, technology offers greater opportunities for special education students, who can use iPads and other modern devices to communicate. When technology is used in the right way, I believe it can enrich a child’s learning experience tremendously!

    With that said, I do believe that we need to be cautious when implementing technology in the classroom. It seems that far too often, teachers use technology as a crutch. Rather than using it to enhance a lesson, some teachers passively sit back and let a video teach their lesson instead. In these cases, when technology is abused or becomes a substitute to good teaching, than it can be an absolute disaster. In an ideal world, students without access technology should not be at a disadvantage compared to their peers who do because, in my opinion, an effective teacher is capable of teaching anything that technology can provide us with.

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    1. Yes! An effective teacher CAN teach anything that technology does. It should never be used as a replacement for a teacher's lesson. Thank you for sharing.

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  3. Technology can really help a teacher in the classroom! I think that today kids are using technology all the time and to bring it into the classroom would probably keep students motivated. Of course smart boards are amazing and can be used for basically any type of lesson and they are very interactive for the class.

    The one problem I have with technology in the classroom is having students read their books on iPads or kindles. I find that kids should read with actual books in their hands. I find it to be more beneficial to show students to appreciate the books that they have in a library or a book store.

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