Chapter 6- Learning and Teaching with Technology

Technology is a wonderful thing that has been introduced to everybody because it makes things easier and better. It is essential that technology is introduced to students in the classroom because school is supposed to be the place you learn about everything you will need in life. Children spend most of their time in school so learning how to use technology from their teachers helps them advance with the rest of the world. They will eventually become able to live comfortably in a technological world.
Computers assist in all of the learning theories such as constructivism, constructionism, engaged learning and scaffolding. Even if a student is working alone on a computer, they are getting instant feedback and can play games with and against the computer, which will teach them how to think on their own and give them the ability to critically think. Working on the computer is like working with someone who is teaching you. Even when I am typing a paper the computer is telling me my errors, just as a teacher would.
Technology just can’t be tacked on because it’s available. Teachers must know how and when to use technology and which type of technology will work best at that time. Teachers have to help other teachers and share information they know. Not only are they educating students, but they are also learning for themselves.
There are some people who think technology isn’t such a good thing to be used in the classroom. They think the students will become so engaged in the technology that is being used rather than getting the information. This is where the teachers discretion comes in place. Technology isn’t supposed to be thrown in every lesson, it isn’t supposed to be the only part of the lesson, and it is always supposed to serve a purpose i.e. getting information about insects so they can write about them. Times are changing at a fast pace and that effects the everyday lives of everybody. Technology in classrooms is important so the students can grow up and be able to live comfortably in a fast paced society.