Technology has been a part of our world since the beginning of time. It’s in the media, health care, various workplaces, and even in education. Technology is always evolving, and now more than ever, is used to help children better succeed in their studies. As I reflect back on my early school days, I am truly amazed at how much technology has changed since then. I remember when I was in first grade I had my first experience with an apple computer. The apple computer back then (roughly 1997) was not the sleek, slick apple computers we see today, but had a small screen, and was rather clunky.
Computers also, were rarely seen in classrooms. The only room that had more computers than just one was the “Computer” room. Today, in some classrooms there is more than one computer in each room to better serve both students and teachers. Other computer necessities have changed since I was in school as well, including: floppy disks, CD’s and mice with wires. These technologies have been replaced with things such as Flash Drives, and wireless mice, as well as things like tablets and mini laptops.
Computers are not the only technology that has changed since my school days, overhead projectors have been replaced with SMART boards and Document Viewers. Televisions are not placed on wheels and rolled around
from classroom to classroom anymore either, but are stationary in classrooms for convenience and better accessibility. These new and improved technologies are essential in the classroom because they allow students to participate in a higher level of thinking.
The article “What Does Teaching in the 21st Century Mean?” (Educational Technology and Mobile Learning) explains how technology in the classroom can enhance student achievement through video. The video shows that through the use of technology, students are able to gain knowledge anytime, anywhere and through technology, comes teaching digital responsibility (Educational Technology and Mobile Learning). Technology not only benefits the students but the teachers as well. The teaching of technology allows teachers to think more critically about the tools they use to teach. Technology will also pose as a bond between the teacher and the student. If a teacher uses tools that are more relevant to students, the students will be able to grasp information better. In my personal opinion, I think that the use of technology in classrooms is an essential part of teaching. Not only does allow students to think more critically, but it also engages students better because using technology is more fun. Let’s face it, I’d rather have fun while learning, wouldn’t you?
Future Teachers of America 