Technology has evolved throughout the years and has been an important tool in today’s society, especially in education. The integration of technology in education is no longer a "new" idea. Because technology has become such a vital part of society, it is necessary to integrate its use in education in a variety of ways. Today's technology can provide teachers and students with opportunities for teaching and learning that were impossible in the past.
The class discussion on using technology in a classroom was very informative. I really liked how several of our classmates gave examples of websites for our future reference. Some of the websites included teacherspayteachers.com, share my lesson, and weesing.com. There were many technology tools that were mentioned in the class discussion, such as Prezi (online presentation tool), a Smart Board, Elmo, instructional transparencies (overhead projector), television programs (PBS, Reading Rainbow, Mister Rogers, etc.), and audio recordings (CD’s, DVD’s, Blu-Rays, and cassette tapes, etc.).
Using technology in the classroom has many benefits, such as improving overall skills in reading, math, and writing, motivates the students’ interest in learning, and prepares students for the future. Technology can be beneficial in a classroom, but it also has its negative impacts. Technology can distract some students and can be expensive. Another negative impact of technology is not all teachers are comfortable using technology and they are not properly trained. As future educators, it is important that we always remember that “we are the teachers, not technology”.
Hi Angela! I agree that many teachers seem a bit nervous or intimidated regarding technology. This is why it is important to take the courses necessary as well as attend trainings. On a positive note, I have seen more teachers use technology in recent observations. I am sure that over time, technology use in the classroom will be the norm.
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