USING TECHNOLOGY TO AID LEARNING

Using Technology to Aid Learning

Using Technology to Aid Learning

Introduction

Should technology be integrated into the classroom? Can technology integration enhance student's performance? Is technology integration a necessity in the modern era of education? While teachers have used videos, TV programs, films, audiotapes, and filmstrips and computers for a number of years, the efficacy of technology for classroom learning continues to be a debate amongst academicians, parents and policymakers. Teachers who have brought technology into their classrooms are aware that it provides an opportunity to differentiate instruction and change their classrooms into dynamic learning environments. Research shows that it is beneficial to integrate technology into the classroom. (Karlin, 2007)

Researchers have been analyzing if it is important to integrate technology in classrooms or not. There are numerous accounts of researchers, examining the integration of technology in education. Since the advancement in information technology, and increasing use of technological equipments in different areas, researchers began to realize that this issue needs to be investigated. However, conclusions from recent account differ. According to Allison (2001), integration of technology is questionable as it requires special training, adequate access, and sufficient time for implementation. However, experimental investigation into the criticism provide opposite point of view. According to Sharon Judge, teachers know that there are specific strategies that will help their students become lifelong learners (Judge 2005). So the question remains if it is beneficial to integrate technology into the classroom.

Body: Discussion and Analysis

The benefits of integrating technology in classroom learning include broad range of learning requirements for every student. Studies have shown technology to be effective for teaching and learning with all levels of students, including those with special needs (Judge 2005). Researchers have found that using technology can increase student achievement across a variety of subject areas, including mathematics, science, social studies, writing, and reading. In addition to increasing student achievement, technology can improve the communication process between students and teachers.

Information and Communication technologies have facilitated teaching and learning since long. Because technologies have advanced over the years, they have become crucial to the learning and teaching process. With information technologies entering the electronic age, the pace of integrating technologies into teaching and learning increased. Carrier (2007) in his study noted that the use of the television, radio and photograph adds to the opportunities for communication. One may see it at every level of learning, and when these technologies were ...