I read an article that had some pretty big claims about technology in science and in teaching in general. I was reading an article called "Evaluation of Interactive Media in Science Education" by David Kumar.
One of his opening lines said something to the effect of that education is dependent on the use of technology. Also, the article said that one of the biggest hopes for improving teaching quality and delivery is through the use of technology. I did not really agree with this statement. I think the teacher is the biggest influence in how things are taught. I don't think using technology automatically makes you a good teacher. I also don't think that good teachers have to use a ton of technology. A good teacher can incorporate technology in their classroom, but technology does not make a good teacher.
The article did have some good points about how using technology can keep kids more engaged in their learning. It also helps to keep students responsible for their own learning with the use of different programs.
The article also talked about the importance of pre-service teachers being taught directly how to incorporate technology into the teaching of science. At Drake, we take an Educational Technology course that teaches us directly how we can include technology in the classroom. I do see the importance and the need for technology in the classroom, however there is more that is involved in good teaching.
I definitely agree with you. Technology does not automatically make for a better teacher and one does not have to use a lot of technology in the classroom. There is definitely a place for it but those that feel it needs to be used all the time I do not agree with. We are not required to take an educational technology course but can see how it could be useful. I would like there to be a behavioral management course. Now that could help improve upon one's quality of teaching.
ReplyDeletewell said. It will be hard to maintain this well-reasoned point of view as the naive push for technology integration steadily marches on.
ReplyDeleteTechnology can definitely help enhance learning when used appropriately, but it cannot effectively stand alone unaided by the support of good teaching. Also, with the use of technology comes additional teacher considerations related to classroom management issues. Technology can be engaging for many students and its important to take precautions to ensure that this medium doesn't interfere with or become a distraction for learning.
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