Benefits of Technology in the Classroom

Technology in the classroom is so important these days.  Children of this generation are constantly being stimulated with electronics.  We live in a society that is fast past and is always ready for the next bigger and better thing.  As an educator it is important to stay in touch with the new learning methods.  We are often afraid to explore these type of learning methods but without technology incorporated into are everyday lessons we will have students unengaged and not eager to learn. 

Ipads are one of the best things that you can use in the classroom.  There are so many educational apps that you can download into the ipad that will help the learner.  Students are constantly playing computer games and on phones, or ipads so why not have apps available to them so they can learn.  One example, I had a student last year that was unable to identify letters and sounds.  I had a conference with her parents and they couldn’t understand why she can figure out how to play a game from no directions but cannot learn her letters and sounds.  I suggested for them to delete any app that was not helping her learn and only download the apps we are using here at the school.  With her using the app on her mother’s phone and using the ipad here at school my student went from recognizing two letters, no sounds to all 26 letters, sounds, and so much more in a matter of two months.  Technology k-12 instruction blogspot, states that when teachers incorporate technology into the classroom, “Technology helps to change the role of teachers and students in the classroom…deepen and enhance the learning process (Edutopia Staff, 2008).”  Technology offers an excellent opportunity for students to guide their own learning.  http://technologyandk-12instruction.blogspot.com

"If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow." John Dewey

When I open up my centers students gravitate towards the electronic center.  They prefer nine out of ten times to play there versus anywhere else.  This shows me that I constantly have to be updating myself with the best thing that’s out there.  Just like the quote states,

I love this quote and if words could make a noise this word would be an atomic bomb blowing up. I use technology in so many different forms in my career and I will continue to do so.  If we never reinvent the wheel are the future of our children will be in complete dismay.  I will always find ways to adapt to what is new so that my students can always reap the rewards.   

Video below displays everything and more of why we need and have to have technology.

Why Use Technology in the Classroom from Bethany Smith