Trending
Written by: Margarita RoseAs teaching techniques continue to develop over the years, the use of technology within the classroom has become more and more common. Although many teachers are still understandably reluctant to embrace different methods of learning, the advantages cannot be understated. So, whether you're an educator yourself or a concerned parent, take a look through these top seven benefits of using technology within the classroom.
1. Technology Improves Attention
Keeping children engaged during lessons is difficult at the best of times, but introducing technology into the classroom can be a great way to retain students' attention. With so many different quizzes and educational games available to teachers, the possibilities are nearly limitless. For all those visual learners out there, watching educational videosis a great alternative to traditional learning. Not only do videos make lessons easier to digest, but they also aid in immersing learners and keeping them focused.
2. Technology promotes collaboration and team-building
With the introduction of technology, it's now even easier for students to collaborate and work as part of a team, both of which are essential skills in nearly every workplace environment. For instance, by using cloud storage students can easily send and access files whether they're at home or school. With certain apps, they also have the ability to revise or peer review each other's work and it's even possible to work with other students from around the globe.
3. Prepares students for the future
In just the past few decades the way we approach education has changed drastically, and in the future, it's highly likely that technology will play an even larger role around the classroom and workplace. Many traditional jobs now require a basic degree of IT literacy, and making sure that students are comfortable with technology will ensure that they'll be able to adapt to the ever-evolving workplace. It also prepares for a number of other key skills such as self-guided research and critical thinking.
4. Improves Teacher Support
Maintaining the right level of support between teachers and students is perhaps one of the most important aspects when it comes to education. However, with classrooms growing increasingly larger, one to one guidance can often be difficult. Through educational apps and tools, it's possible for teachers to easily keep track of each student's progress, meaning they can tailor each learning experience to the needs of the child. There's also a number of other uses such as monitoring classroom attendance and behavior.
5. Self-Guided Learning
Another advantage of using technology within the classroom is that it encourages students to use their initiative and guide themselves. One of the most challenging aspects of traditional teaching is ensuring every child learns at the correct pace. Some students may pick up concepts more slowly than others, but technology allows hem to revisit difficult topics and learn at their own speed. This not only ensures that they won't fall behind in the classroom, but it also allows them to go into certain topics further in-depth.
6. Allows For Mobile Learning
One other positive aspect of technology is that it allows students to work remotely. Whether they're at home or on holiday, there are a number of educational apps that allow children to continue their learning outside of the classroom. Educational apps are also far more likely to engage students as opposed to traditional homework. In addition, tools such as educational videos may explain concepts far more clearly than traditional textbooks or worksheets. It also encourages allows users to conduct their own research and take control of their own learning.
7. Aids Students with Special Needs
Finally, technology can be an incredibly useful tool when dealing with children with special needs or requirements. For instance, for students with poor coordination and slow handwriting, a laptop or tablet will allow them to keep up with their peers. Along with helping to increase their productivity it also allows them to focus on the lesson, aiding retention. Assistive technology also has a number of other uses including text-to-speech software for children who struggle verbally. and braille displays for the visually challenged.In the end, whether it's aiding children with disabilities or allowing learners to collaborate across the world, integrating technology into the classroom provides a range of benefits for both teachers and students alike. Not only does it teach students vital skills for the future, but it also aids attention, teamwork, and encourages pupils to learn by themselves. As classrooms evolve, technology is likely to become an integral part of the learning process.
Related: How to Manage Kids’ Technology Usage