Classroom computers motivate students to learn. Technology is not a distraction or a way for teachers to take a break. It encourages students to be actively involved in learning. Using devices such as a computer or tablet gives life to dull subjects.
Each student has different learning styles, so teachers must adjust lessons so that every student learns the content. Technology allows teachers to modify lessons to fit students’ needs.
Collaboration, Teamwork, Bonding
Educators claim that using technology helps students build collaboration and teamwork skills. Students with more advanced skills help inexperienced peers.
Technology bonds teachers and students. Working with technology devices can improve relationships between students and teachers. Integrating technology into subject matter expands knowledge of the technology in the classroom and encourages critical thinking skills.
Young Learners
Students of all ages love technology. Early elementary students are capable and eager to use tablets and computers. They use technology outside the classroom. It’s essential in the early elementary years to create an engaging learning experience. Technology begins to develop problem-solving skills and collaboration early. Many programs help students learn to design and create.
Screen Time Limits
Screen time in the classroom has a positive impact on learning. It develops functioning skills, supports reading and vocabulary, increases understanding, and develops social skills. However, screen time is a concern for many. Thus, research has found too much screen time results in health-related problems such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, several health organizations suggest limitations.
- The World Health Organization recommends no more than an hour or less of screen time for ages 2 – 12.
- The American Heart Association suggests 2 hours, and 1 hour for students under 5.
- The Mayo Clinic suggests screen time incorporating music, movement, and stories.
- Studies imply that short videos are the best.
In the previous years of the pandemic’s synchronous and asynchronous learning, teachers realized the importance of analog learning activities. Therefore, they are aware of limited screen time activities. Consequently, many teachers incorporate students in hands-on activities that do not use technology.
Instructional Tools
There are ways technology enhances hands-on learning opportunities.
- Create or locate short video clips that supplement instruction.
- Through technology, create instructions for a project to guide students through the assignment.
- Guide students through various learning stations, each station having an iPad, phone, or Chromebook for students to independently or in groups complete a task.
Technology has many uses in the classroom. In addition to supplementing the curriculum, students can use it to track their learning. They can document assignments, projects, activities, and presentations, thereby tracking their grades.
Technology in the classroom must provide a purpose to a learning task. It must provide student support in lessons and assignments. Outside of the classroom, it is used every day. Permitting students to learn skills with technology prepares them to go further in life.
