Camila Parise 4ºA

Technology as a Tool to Support Instruction
By Lynne Schrum

We're all familiar with the promises of technology: It will make our students smarter and it will do it faster and cheaper than before. However, we know that learning does not occur by osmosis. We need more than a place and a computer in a room.

In the 1980s, the software used in the classroom was bad. Educators were not familiar with the technology, so the technicians did this job. They defined the way technology was used. Nowadays, we live in the technology era. We use it in business and industry, which is accepted and expected.

Is technological skill enough? We should consider these points: 

Ø  TECHNOLOGY AS A TOOL

Technology is a tool that can change the nature of learning.

First, educators want students to learn. It is not enough to tell the teachers to use the technology because it is in their schools. It is important to use it with a purpose: help the students’ learning.

Technology is connected with exploration. It has to be meaningful for both, teaching and learning. In a classroom where technology is used, students might search the web for information, and record what they have learned on the computer. In this environment, students are active because they participate in their learning process. They produce and present knowledge in a variety of ways.

In this environment, teachers can encourage different outcomes instead of insisting on the right answer. They can evaluate learning in different ways. Besides, students and teachers can be part of a learning team, instead of working individually.

Activities and learning environments must be carefully guided and structured so learners are engaged in their learning. Students must learn that exploration should be a serious process.

In a technology-rich classroom, students don't "learn" technology. Technology provides the tools to be used for authentic learning. It is a means, not an end.

Ø  CHOOSING AND USING THE TOOLS

Teachers must insist on being part of the planning for technology integration. They must work together and share their experiences with other colleagues. They must help designing the staff; it should include time to practice using the equipment.

Ø  WORKING TOGETHER

In order to successfully include technology into their classrooms, teachers must have the support of the educational community. They must provide the best means of technology and the best software with educational purpose.

Finally, teachers must educate themselves on how to use those tools for teaching and learning purposes. This is a great opportunity to challenge themselves, the students and the community in order to do a better use of technology. 




http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech004.shtml