The Use and Abuse of Technology

Check out this article about technology in the classroom:  http://kathycassidy.com/2013/01/05/the-use-and-abuse-of-technology-in-the-classroom/

     

     Technology in the classroom is growing and growing every year. The article states, "Technology should not just allow us to do things in a more engaging way; it should allow us to do new things that we thought were not possible. It is those new things that are the real value technology provides.  It is not enough to USE technology. You must use it well." As teachers, we can not just hand students technology and expect them to use it for educational purposes. We must guide and teach them. Some teacher abuse the use of technology. Technology should not be used as just a digital version of a paper item (such as a worksheet or eBook). Don't use technology just to keep kids occupied. They need to be learning and engaging themselves. Don't just use technology for things that can be done without it. Use it for things that are not accessible to your classroom. The article gives the example of drawing a picture; you get the same outcome on paper or IPad. Use technology to IMPROVE the way you present a lesson. Search for different apps that can help your lesson. There are so many out there the possibilities are endless! Technology can also be used for connecting with other classmates and teachers and sharing work. Last but not least, technology should be used to give you choices. Everybody has different learning styles. Some people prefer digital learning some prefer having a text book.