As we continue to journey deeper into the 21st Century, the technology we use in our lives only becomes more prevalent. While some still yearn for more simple, analog times, the reality is quickly evolving technology gives us tools to improve our entertainment, travel, and work. The education field has always had its fair share of technological revolutions, but often it’s the tried and true ways that keep teachers from expanding their use of new tools and discovering how beneficial new technology can be.
Many modern educators are pushing the boundaries of the latest technologies to help better teach students and engage them fully as they learn in this new and exciting environment. These are the educators who see how progress in technology directly correlates to the progress of our students’ learning. What follows are some of the ways technology in the classroom is beneficial to everyone.
Varied Learning Methods
New technology offers students ways to learn beyond traditional textbooks and note taking. Interactive online programs allow students to reach higher levels of engagement as they continue to synthesize important information and concepts. Seeking evidence in texts can come in the form of copying and pasting into new documents, or creating charts, drawings, graphs and forms to demonstrate understanding.
Prepares Students for The Future
Today’s technology will continue to evolve and affect all career paths. Students who have a basis of knowledge rooted in current technology will be ready to transfer these skills when they reach the workforce. Students are already more equipped to work with apps, tablets, and the internet, as they have been doing so their whole lives. Utilizing these skills in the classroom will only enhance students’ knowledge and potential for their future.
Connects With Students’ Lives
Since students are already using technology in their everyday lives, employing devices and concepts in the classroom is a natural connection to an already present level of engagement. Technology can feel more fun than traditional pen/pencil and paper assignments. Engaging students is critical, so tapping into their interests can help motivate even the most reluctant learner.
Mobile Learning
Now teachers can design lesson plans to incorporate all sorts of devices and technological avenues to ensure learning isn’t confined to just the classroom. Teachers can encourage students, who may spend a lot of time on their devices outside of school, to use them to complete assignments and tasks. Whether it is follow-up questions or assessments, teachers can ensure that the 24-hour access to information and technology is a way to keep students engaged in learning every time they connect.