Educational Technology in the Classroom

As part of an assignment for my class in computer educational applications, I had to write a brief overview on the use of educational technology in the classroom...

Educational technology encompasses the use of technology to encourage and promote learning. This can be done through hardware, software, online games, email, blogs, overhead projectors, and smartboards to name some of the options. Using these technologies can expand learning opportunities and means of communications between teachers, students, and parents.

Teachers can benefit from educational technology in a number of ways. A computer can provide an efficient way to record grades and create tests. Email can be used to communicate with parents and collaborate with fellow teachers. Online blogs and websites dedicated to education can provide learning activities and ideas for the classroom. Smartboards and overhead projectors can provide real-time demonstrations that students can see all at the same time.

Technology in the classroom can benefit students as well. Computer labs provide hands-on learning exercises that children get excited about and can even help improve hand-eye coordination in young students. My own kindergartener has become proficient in the use of a mouse while navigating a computer game that helped her learn the alphabet. For older students, the internet can be a great resource for research and allow for communication with other students about assignments.

While the benefit of educational technology is evident in the information it opens up to teachers and students, there can be some downsides too. Exposure to online materials that parents do not want their child to see or hear is a concern. Plagiarism and cheating is of concern too. Overall, the benefits outweigh the negatives and provide excellent means of new learning opportunities.