Technology in and out of the
classroom can be a polarizing
subject. Proponents of tech in
schools contend that students must
be skilled in the ways of the world,
which is increasingly being governed
by technology. Detractors to
tablets and smartbooks in the classroom
may say it contributes to excessive
time in front of a screen and can
prove distracting over other means
of learning.
It is hard to deny the ways that
technology has helped shape and improve
education. Students who may
not excel with the traditional tools of
learning might benefi t from applications
geared toward offering assistance
for their particular needs. Furthermore,
technology, through its
globalization, can put educators and
students in touch with a wealth of resources
— all at their fi ngertips. The
following are the myriad ways that
technology can enhance lessons in
the classroom.
Inexpensive resources
Technology can provide various
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online resources that go beyond
the study guides and other materials
offered by textbooks. These
resources can be very low-cost or
even free, helping educators save
money. For parents who need to reinforce
lessons at home, the internet
can help them collaborate with
other parents and teachers and
fi nd fun ways to help their children
learn.
Quantifi able results
Technology can process data
more quickly and effi ciently than
humans. Algorithms can be developed
to help students learn faster.
Tech can be customized in unique
ways to help students learn. Not every
student learns the same way.
Technology provides for a multimedia
approach that can combine
visual and auditory tools to better
teach students.
Connect more
Teachers can embrace technology,
such as YouTube-powered
guides to show students how to
complete assignments or to go over
information in the classroom. Students
who missed class or need a
little reinforcement can benefi t
from a second look at lessons in online
videos available at all times on
the internet.
Some teachers employ QR codes
on assignments that students (and
parents) can scan to access further
information or support materials.
This can help kids further explore
topics after school hours.
Transcend location
Technology can connect people
by voice, text or video, which means
that learning is not limited to geographic
location. Notes and materials
can be shared with teachers or
study groups through digital connections
around the world in real
time.
Get feedback
Students can go beyond their
school districts or communities to
discover how others learn. High
school or college students can rely
on internet communities to provide
a second set of eyes on papers
to proofread for grammar or spelling
mistakes or even to assist in
brainstorming sessions.
Reinforce STEM
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics says employment in
occupations related to STEM — science,
technology, engineering, and
mathematics — is projected to grow
to more than nine million by 2022.
Technology plays a strong role in
STEM careers. Honing these skills
in the classroom can prepare students
for professional arenas in
which technology fi gures to play a
sizable role.
Technology has changed the education
landscape in many benefi -
cial ways. BS187165
Even in a year that has been this
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How technology
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