Strictly speaking, technology can be simply a mechanical pencil or a spoon.
Broadly, in education, technology usually refers to the use of computers and computer programs to support learning.
Many teachers are actively using technology - all sorts - in interesting, cross-curricular, collaborative ways. I've also observed many teachers are uncertain on how to go about using some of our newer technologies or simply are so overwhelmed by the opportunities to use it, that they balk at the prospect.
Administrators who wish to grow as a technology-based school would be wise to grow slowly and to take advantage of time.
In our rush-to-success environment - due to our high-pressure, high-stakes, results-oriented, commerce-based schools of today - I observe that often experienced (and valuable) teachers are left to the sides, as newer teachers who can turn on a computer program are admired. There is NO pedagogical skill in using a particular learning program. There IS skill in developing lessons which use a computer program as a tool for expression or creation. There is NO skill in using a computer as the proverbial carrot in the learning environment, "if everyone is good, we will get onto the computers later".
Technology in the classroom should be balanced with service learning projects, hands-on activities and the ill-famed, but always effective, drill-and-kill for certain topics.
Ultimately, I firmly believe that technology isn't always necessary for a good lesson.
It's more of a facilitator of knowledge and we do ourselves and our students a disservice when we present technology as anything more than a tool.
Broadly, in education, technology usually refers to the use of computers and computer programs to support learning.
Many teachers are actively using technology - all sorts - in interesting, cross-curricular, collaborative ways. I've also observed many teachers are uncertain on how to go about using some of our newer technologies or simply are so overwhelmed by the opportunities to use it, that they balk at the prospect.
Administrators who wish to grow as a technology-based school would be wise to grow slowly and to take advantage of time.
In our rush-to-success environment - due to our high-pressure, high-stakes, results-oriented, commerce-based schools of today - I observe that often experienced (and valuable) teachers are left to the sides, as newer teachers who can turn on a computer program are admired. There is NO pedagogical skill in using a particular learning program. There IS skill in developing lessons which use a computer program as a tool for expression or creation. There is NO skill in using a computer as the proverbial carrot in the learning environment, "if everyone is good, we will get onto the computers later".
Technology in the classroom should be balanced with service learning projects, hands-on activities and the ill-famed, but always effective, drill-and-kill for certain topics.
Ultimately, I firmly believe that technology isn't always necessary for a good lesson.
It's more of a facilitator of knowledge and we do ourselves and our students a disservice when we present technology as anything more than a tool.
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