EDL 305 Discussion - Appropriate Use of Technology

Technology is a wonderful tool and can be very illuminating for students if used appropriately. While technology can be useful for retaining old methods of teaching and redisplaying them in a new way, it is important to embrace the full capabilities of technology in the classroom. One way that technology can be embraced is to personalize learning to each student. Technology can make learning more personal by giving students a choice between several different Webquests topics, in science for example, and allow them to choose a topic that interests them. Students will be able to learn classroom material but in a way that interests them.

Technology is also a wonderful tool because it can engage the multiple intelligences postulated by Howard Gardner. Online videos can be used to stimulate visual and musical learners. Logical learners can be given online puzzles that are class material. Giving students an interactive example of classroom topics will allow for a greater retention of knowledge. Unique learners may also have their technological experience tailored to their specific needs. Because technology is easy to modify, instructors can better engage their unique students. Additionally, technology can show students real-world examples of things they learn in school. Once students are able to apply classroom learning to occurrences outside the classroom and deepen their understanding of the topics, there is a stronger retention of the material. Ray Gen discusses the importance of using multiple intelligences in technology on http://www.usdla.org/html/journal/MAY00_Issue/story02.htm. It is also discussed on http://www.nsba.org/sbot/toolkit/tiol.html the different ways that technology may be included to stimulate multiple intelligences.

As far as the digital divide in K-12 settings is concerned, digital citizenship is an important factor to take into account when allowing students to use technology. Before any instructor employs technology in their classroom, they should educate students on the dangers of the Internet and proper usage. This will create the wall between students and dangers of inappropriate technology usage. Technology can be a powerful tool in the classroom, but one must treat it correctly and seek new ways to reach students rather than the traditional methods.