Technology

Technology should be used as a tool, not as the teacher.

I believe that technology is important to integrate into teaching; however, there are many variables to take into consideration.

Over reliance on technology can lead to, lack of connection between teacher and students, poor connectivity, equity issues, over stimulation and lack of fundamental skills.  Additionally, heavy reliance on technology reduces the value of human interactions and the opportunities to develop social and oral communication skills.

When integrated correctly, however, technology can be used to enhance a student’s learning by allowing them greater resources, various forms of collaboration and avenues of feedback, as well as personalized lessons according to their ability. Tech integration, can allow for efficient forms of assessments and an approachable opportunity for engagement for the more reserved students.

In the future, the use of technology will be more common, when more appropriate programs and apps have been created specifically for educational purposes. Currently, teachers are forced to adapt or modify business oriented tools or create their own resources. This is time-consuming and inefficient which leads to teacher frustration and contributes to burn out. I believe that the use of technology will be used more effectively as the availability of teacher based tools increases and when there are clear standards for the integration of technology in the classroom.