Technology has drastically transformed how knowledge is shared, consumed, and accessed — leading to a profound reinvention of traditional learning.
Yes, traditional face-to-face classes have long been an effective method of teaching and learning. However, with the introduction of new gadgets and technology, the education sector has changed – gone are the days of rote learning and theory.
The question now is “How has technology impacted teaching?”
Continue reading to find out.
Benefits of Technology To Teaching
Using technology to teach comes with numerous benefits. These include:
Better Engagement
Lack of enthusiasm and attention in class affects academic excellence. Students tend to perform poorly in topics and subjects that they find uninteresting. However, technology facilitates a more engaging and interesting learning process.
Automation
Teachers benefit greatly from automation. They can upload lessons to a learning management system (LMS) which students can easily access whenever they need to. Furthermore, teachers can also grade tests online, and students and parents get notified of the scores.
Improved Collaboration
Technology has improved collaboration between teachers and students. In the same way, teachers can interact with their students during lectures, and students can also communicate with each other. Collaborative activities allow people to share ideas and thoughts and solve problems easily.
Combined Learning Styles
Technology makes it possible for teachers to adopt and adapt to every style of learning. Depending on their students’ needs, they can teach using recordings, texts, lectures, and illustrations.
Moreover, since online resources are updated regularly, teachers and students can always get accurate and up-to-date information.
Better Preparation for the Future
With technology, students become more flexible, inventive, and creative.
Several programs and applications have been developed to assist them in learning valuable skills they can apply in real-world scenarios.
Disadvantages of Technology to Teaching
Some concerns arise as more technology is being introduced and incorporated into the classroom. These include:
Cost
To use technology in teaching, you need internet browsers, printers, computer hardware, internet connection, and so on. Getting all these requirements does not come cheap, it costs a lot of money.
Higher Training and Management
The use of technology in education has a steep learning curve. Teachers need to use screens and different digital learning platforms effectively. Plus, IT specialists are needed to set up, monitor, manage, and support students and teachers at all times.
More Distraction for Students
Social media platforms like YouTube and Twitter are becoming more popular among students. They spend more time on these platforms which diverts their attention away from their studies and affects their performance.
Inaccurate Information
Many websites convey inaccurate information just to gain traffic. With access to different websites and online platforms, students easily have access to this misleading content.
Will Traditional Learning Fade Out?
Technology has transformed the educational system in so many ways. Anyone willing to learn any subject can readily access internet-enabled classrooms from anywhere in the world at any time. This shows that we are becoming more and more technologically oriented.
However, combining technology with traditional learning has significant advantages for both students and teachers. Plus, gaining technology skills can help students grow not just professionally but also personally.
In conclusion, the impact of technology on teaching is multifaceted and complex. Despite its limitations, incorporating technology into teaching provides a better approach to learning for teachers and students, improving their interactions and engagements with one another.
Thanks to technology, teaching is no longer limited to the four walls of a classroom.
Researched by Iloh Chioma Sandra
