The introduction of technology to the traditional classroom is inevitable. We have all seen that our world is changing faster than ever before. It happens so quickly now that schools have barely been able to keep up. They simply introduce a new device to an existing,outdated curriculum. It is evident that something needs to change, but to what degree? How far should we take it and are teachers ready to learn and implement these new ideas?
I recently watched the video Future Learning and it definitely made me think about how I see technology in the modern classroom. This video convinced me that used correctly, technology could make learning much more efficient and fun. I think its a great idea to use video games as a way to reinforce concepts and apply knowledge in a relevant way. Some traditional methods have become outdated and time consuming, when you can access the answer to your question in seconds,you can learn so much more. Children in today's classroom are most comfortable in this medium, it is the administration that is resistant to embrace the change.
On the other hand, I then watched a video that made me feel like technology could take over the classroom and eliminate interpersonal aspect of school. Classroom of Tomorrow showed a lot of the possibilities of technology but I feel like a balance is needed. I think it is important for hands on, tangible learning as well as on the screen. It is important for writing to still be practiced, books to still be touched, and posters made without the use of a printer. There is an element of perfection associated with things produced and edited with computers, sometimes lacking creativity. I think its important to also incorporate the hand made aspect into children's education.
Like all things in life, balance is necessary and change will happen. The students already know how to use it,the technology is already created, all that is left is to decide how much in the classroom and where to begin.
I agree with your need for a focus on balance!
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