Technology is transforming the education system, changing when, where, and how the students learn while empowering educators to efficiently personalize the learning process. Besides being an effective tool for teachers to personalize learning, technology empowers the students at every stage and prepares them for the modern workforce.
Integrating Technology In The Classroom
When technological integration in teaching is thoughtful and seamless, students become more engaged and begin to get in control of their learning process. Effective technological integration transforms the classroom dynamic and encourages student-centered learning.
Here are a few ways that teachers can integrate technology in their classrooms to develop student-centered project-based learning.
1. Online research
A great way that teachers can integrate technology in their classes is by having the students research various projects on the internet. Thankfully, there are lots of exciting ways that teachers can structure online research tasks.
One of the most effective and popular online research projects is known as the Web Quest Model. This inquiry-oriented lesson involves getting part or all the information directly from the internet.
Fortunately, there are lots of web quest projects that you can implement in your classroom. Teachers can also find templates online to help them develop web quest projects on any subject.
2. Digital Presentations
Tools like Microsoft PowerPoint and Prezi make it easy for learners to create presentations and share their assignments with the class. Google Docs also has a similar program that allows students to collaborate in creating a single multimedia project.
With Google Docs, learners can work on multimedia projects using their tablets or laptops when at home. These collaborative tools help to make teamwork seamless and accessible, whether the learners are working on their projects at home or in the classroom.
3. Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive whiteboards are increasingly becoming an essential tool in modern classrooms. For those who are yet to use one, you can think of it like rolling touch screen whiteboards for displaying images, videos, and websites.
Interactive whiteboards are excellent tools for engaging classrooms during an interactive lesson. According to a 2010 research done by Marzano Research Laboratory, using interactive whiteboards led to a 16% improvement in student achievement.
4. Online Grading Systems
Communication is an essential element that helps administrators, parents, teachers, and students to recognize a learner’s strengths and areas that require improvement.
An online grading system like PowerSchool allows teachers to open and facilitate communication lines, where they can analyze the students’ study patterns, manage transcript data, and post grades.
5. Gamified Learning
Gaming is now a huge part of the students’ lives. Whether it’s in class or at home, the gamification of the learning process is valuable for teachers as it gives the students new exciting ways to learn different concepts.
6. Benefits of Using Technology in Teaching and Learning
According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center, 92% of teachers believe that technology has a major impact on the students’ performance and how they access resources or content. Here are several ways that technology improves the learning process.
7. A More Engaged Environment
While some people might think that technology is only a distraction, it can encourage the active participation of learners in the classroom. That means using devices like a tablet, computer, and other technologies to make traditionally dull subjects more fun and interactive.
8. The Technology Incorporates Different Learning Styles
Every student in any classroom is different, which can make it hard for some to adjust to the learning plan. Fortunately, teachers can use technology to modify lessons and personalize the lessons to help different students understand various subjects.
9. Prepares Learners For the Future
According to a new study, 90% of modern students believe that using technology in learning would better prepare them for the future job market. By teaching students technological skills, you can help them get a better chance for success.
That’s why it’s important to introduce students to technology at a young age to help them prepare for future digital demands at a young age.
10. Improves Collaboration
Teachers have noted an increased frequency of learners assisting each other when using technology in class. Most tech-based tasks also involve other aspects and that leads to situations where learners must seek help from their teachers or peers.
Additionally, when learners are divided into small groups, the ones who are more technologically advanced can help their inexperienced peers.
11. Improved Teacher Efficiency and Productivity
Teachers can use technology to achieve new productivity levels, implement helpful digital tools for expanding learning opportunities and increase student engagement/support. Technology also helps teachers to personalize learning and improve their instruction methods.
Additionally, institutions can benefit from reduced costs of producing physical instructional materials, while enhancing the efficiency of a program.
Bottom Line
While over 90% of teachers understand technology’s impact on the education system, there are several challenges in the implementation and application process. For instance, only a small percentage of learning institutions around the world have access to the equipment needed for different technologies like artificial intelligence.
More concerns for parents, administrators, and teachers include excessive screen time and the tutor’s effectiveness in using the technology required.
