Using Technology in the Classroom

Technology is making major inroads in the classroom. Almost every classroom that i have visited in schools that i have worked had in it some kind of technological apparatus. It is not uncommon nowadays to see an overhead projector, LCD display, DVD player, computers or even smartboards and the like in a classroom.

It seems that technology implementation in the classroom has become a must. Many at times teachers feel the need to use technology in the classroom even when it does not facilitate or add any value to the teaching-learning process, either because the teacher may not be technologically savvy or access to the technology is limited by scarcity or troubleshooting. There are also cases where teachers rely too much on technology to the point where the teaching-learning process becomes a bore, particularly for the students.

I am all for technology use- the internet as a resource for information in the classroom, software like Geometers Sketch Pad or google earth to aid the facilitating of geometry, PowerPoint presentations, word processing software for students' writing etc. these few examples are some of the ways in which technology can be used. My concern however is when teachers feel obligated to use technology even when its use brings about more problems than it solves. Another major concern that i have is when teachers loose their edge and creativity because they have become overly reliant on technology. For example a skilled teacher will use a power point presentation in addition to their strong presence and personality only to enhance the teaching process and perhaps for expediency, however a dull teacher will simply just read off the power point without any personal presence.

It is important to note that though technology is a powerful tool, it is us humans that bring it to life, and not the other way round. And there is nothing more engaging to students than a knowledgeable teacher full of insight, grace, and spirit.