As I
continue to study educational technologies that can be used to enhance and
strengthen learning, it is quite easy to get lost in the ideal classroom.
Envisioning easy access to SMART boards, projectors, clickers, and LiveScribe
pens provides great insight into all the possibilities of education, but it
does not necessarily reflect the reality of education. Getting lost in the joys
of technology, I simply flashback to using an overhead projector from 1971 in
my last placement! The noise from this “technology” was enough to deter anyone
from listening. So in many cases, classrooms still look as they did when I was
a student. As we move towards new technologies and innovative teaching
strategies, there are still many that stand back and question its use in the
classroom. Why is this? Why is there apprehension surrounding the use of
technology and its effect on teaching and learning?
I believe
part of it has to do with the large disconnect that may exist between schools,
even within the same board. Since the integration of technology relies heavily
on funding, two neighbouring schools may look completely different inside. For
example, “School Technology” may have been recently reconstructed, SMART Boards
in every room, and a supply of technology tools available for teacher use.
Teachers surrounded by these technologies quickly pick up on their uses and
incorporate them creatively into lessons. Taking PD session they learn
successful ways to assist students on IEPs, engage those that need an extra
push with interactive activities, and overall make learning an exciting experience. Teachers have found
ways to integrate technology into their lessons, strengthening their teaching,
and positively affecting learning. On the other hand, “School Limited”
represents almost every other school that has not directed their funding
towards educational technologies. In many cases, these schools place their
funding in other areas, a breakfast program, new textbooks, or physical
education equipment, each just as important as technology integration. However,
with the increase of educational technologies around the world, these tools
still find their way into classrooms, but do so at a slower pace. With less of
emphasis on technology integration, it can become quite easy to use these tools
ineffectively. Becoming the glorified PowerPoint projector, educators fail to
use these technologies up to their potential.
While the previous scenario was
only one interpretation of the issue, I believe it makes up for part of the
reality of why technology has failed to create change. With only a small
percentage of teachers and schools using these tools effectively, many fail to
see the benefits, including students. However, that is not to say that with the
placement of technology in classrooms, teaching and learning will suddenly leap
forward. Integration is the key word. Technology is simply a tool for learning,
not the material itself. Effective lessons, planning, and innovative approaches
coupled with appropriate technology use is crucial for a change in education. The
tools that we have available at our hands have the power to alter teaching and
learning, but there are so many variables at hand that it becomes a challenge all
educators should constantly and consistently strive for.
I saw this video recently in one of my classes. Even though it is for education in New Brunswick it remains applicable to those of us in Southern Ontario. Just some things to think about as we strive to become 21st century educators!
I saw this video recently in one of my classes. Even though it is for education in New Brunswick it remains applicable to those of us in Southern Ontario. Just some things to think about as we strive to become 21st century educators!
