Technology in the classroom

THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM

In recent years, technology has become an important part of our lives. In the same way, schools have included technology in their classrooms and it became a novelty. As it is something new, both teachers and students are discovering the advantages and disadvantages of this new tool in the classroom.

As regards advantages, first of all we should bare in mind that children are born within a technological context. So, devices such as computers are not unfamiliar to them. Working at school with computer programmes keep the students motivated. Furthermore, it also engage their learning through research and discovery. Apart from that, it creates instant access to information; it allows communication and the chance to explore different places without moving. Needless to say that through technology students are able to be updated with the latest information. Also, the use of virtual classrooms allow the teacher to have contact with the students and check homework almost instantly.

Although technology seems to be a necessary tool in our classrooms, it also has some disadvantages. The use of technology requires previous knowledge from the teacher. This means that the teacher should also be trained to support the hardware in case any unexpected problem arises. If the teacher cannot cope with this task, an expert will be needed and the whole class can become a frustrating experience for both, teacher and students. The selection of material could be another disadvantage. The teacher should look for appropriate websites according to the student´s level and interests. This selection of material may as well be considered as time consuming for the teachers and it also challenges them to maintain a good quality in education. Another disadvantage is that many schools do not have internet access which may be considered as an obstacle in the class development. In addition, many schools do not have computers for each student and many of them have to share a computer so as to do their homework. Another problem emerges when teachers plan a class and computers do not work, so they are no able to carry out the activities.

In conclusion, technology is part of our daily life and, especially, in children´s lives. In spite of the advantages and disadvantages, we may find that the use of technology in the classroom has become an important tool in the teaching process without leaving aside textbooks.

María Noé López Quiroga

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