What are the benefits of
technology use in education?
Technology has come a long way in
such a short time. Only ten years ago I
was playing the simple Nintendo game cube and anticipating the arrival of the
new Xbox. My computer games were slow
and with low resolution, however, I loved them and keep those memories alive. I anticipate new technologies like
the anticipation of starring into a Baskin Robbins ice cream trolley.
It has been my experience that students await technology with a similar zeal
and excitement.
How then does this translate to
education? Simply, technology at home
and even in education excites and motivates most children. Often educators may
struggle with getting students motivated to complete tasks, technology is rarely
a motivation problem. Like switching ice
cream flavors, switching up technology activities keeps the activities fresh
and exciting.
In the majority of studies I've read, boys are more motivated by gaming technology while more girls responded negatively. Often technology was more accepted by peers in social settings by both genders. Depending upon how technology is
integrated into lessons, technology has shown to improve students’ academic
success in comparison to control groups without technology. This is often equated to motivation and
engagement. One benefit of technology
that I think is often not discussed is the benefits to ELL students. Technology gives ELL students access to
important visual and auditory needs.
Technology excites and motivates ELL students to learn English and
simultaneously the curriculum.
Why isn't technology used
more often and more effectively?
This question will always be around
until more funding is put into school’s technology funds. As our guest speakers so clearly stated, in
their experience, matching the research I've read, schools lack the proper
funding, equipment, opportunities, time, and management. Other issues such as technical problems,
which creates negative attitudes towards technology, especially in the case of
the great technology division of generations, makes it a negative experience
for many individuals.
In my opinion, technologies values are in the eyes of the beholder. However, life can't progress forward without it. Technology is the innovator that is disrupting society for the better.
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