Chapter 1 Reflection

Chapter 1 posed a number of supporting arguments for the use of technology in the classroom. Technology can be used for educational purposes in a number of ways and it is important as teachers to use these strategies to enrich student learning. The text addressed that technology can be used as a motivating factor for students. Teachers can use technology to gain the attention of students and get students more engaged in the content. Using technology, such as a smart-board, can allow students to physically manipulate objects on the board as well as allows for more color and visual stimulation, as opposed to just lecturing, which can help make learning more fun. Using technology can also help teachers to address the different learning styles in the classroom. For the example of the smart-board, students who are visual learners, as well as students who are kinesthetic learners would benefit. Technology can also be used to assist students in your classroom with disabilities. For example, a student with cerebral palsy may need to use an AAC device to communicate. Technology can enhance instruction and it can also save time and money. Teachers can use technology to keep records of students progress and use technology to assess students knowledge. Instead of having to copy a bunch of papers, teachers can use computers so students can access worksheets or educational software, cutting down on costs of workbooks, paper and ink, as well as saving time at the printer.     

Although there are a number of benefits to technology, it is also important to understand the problems related to technology. Technology can be very costly, especially since it is always changing. Using Internet also poses threat to teacher and student privacy. Plagiarism is also a concern, since work of others is more readily available and easier to copy. Although there are disadvantages to using technology in the classroom, I feel that it is important to use technology to help enrich the learning process.