Technology In The Classroom

As a graduate student studying Education, I am learning how important technology is in classrooms. Our lives revolve around technology, whether we want to admit it or not. All the information in the world is at our fingertips, and this tech-savvy knowledge is increasing with each generation. Incorporating technology into classrooms can only benefit students. It makes for more interactive learning and grabs the students’ attention by allowing them to use their cellphones or laptops.

I am fortunate to have grown up in the midst of the technology boom. Although I remember checking actual books out of libraries to do research, as I reached the upper grade levels, computers became my main source of information. I can understand how not growing up with technology could be very intimidating. Even I get anxious when I am taught something new on a computer. My advice is to just dive in. The best way to learn is by making mistakes, and your students will appreciate your willingness to try.

Some recommended uses of technology in the classroom are social media sites. Twitter, facebook, and tumblr are all great sources to initiate class discussions and forums. Teachers can also use these sites as a way of having their students teach them. Chances are, most of the students are already using these sites, and they have extensive knowledge on how to operate them. It will be a learning experience for you, while your students can confidently navigate the sites and participate in class. These sites can also be a great way to incorporate group work. If some students do not know how to use the sites, or do not have a cellphone, they can be paired up with students who do.

Other ways of incorporating technology can include watching YouTube videos and using online brainstorming sites like popplet.com, which lets you to create a never-ending map of ideas. For presentations, powerpoint and prezi.com allow students to get creative when presenting their ideas. Another great tool that was used when I was in high school is the eggtimer website. It provides a visual for how much time students have to complete a task. It keeps them on track and conscious of their work. Technology use does not have to be complicated, but it should have a presence.

The possibilities are endless, and your students will most likely have fun in the process. Technology can be daunting, but it’s best to stay in the loop. Your students will thank you and even give you some learning tips along the way. They might even enjoy the fact that they can teach you something for a change.

Colleen Morrill
Boston Tutoring Services