Teaching

Computers never had a common place inside the classroom, imaging what students thought about using word processor versus electronic typewriter word processor or even using the Archaic Manual Typewriter. In today’s world students are considered digital natives. Computers can open pathways that stimulate learning and help develop high order of thinking skills, when technology is applied in a meaningful manner. The proliferation and success of web based curriculum at all levels of education is just the latest examples of the importance of technology to both students and teachers. This research paper will explain why computers are important in the education sector today, the impact that Computer Technology has on the education sector, how computer teaching plays a role in education system, how technology has changed from decades ago until now and the advantages and disadvantages of Computer/ Technology in the education sector.

With the capabilities and wide-spread availability of technology, it is not uncommon to use electronic machines and computers in our everyday lives. Whether it is a business, government, hospital, or car repair shop, people utilize technology to make their jobs more effective, efficient, and enjoyable. One societal institution where the incorporation of technology seems most beneficial is in our schools, especially in K-12. Through the use of technology, education is made more accessible, versatile, engaging, and easier for both students and teachers.

With the explosion of technological advances in the 21st century comes the increased need for the incorporation of technology in the educational field. The classrooms in America can all benefit from the use of technology to increase the understanding of academic content whether in the general education or special education setting.

Technology is often used for the wrong reasons in the classroom. Teachers find a new idea and jump on the “technology band wagon” without considering if this is the best use for the digital tool. When planning lessons using technology, consideration needs to made as to how the tool will enhance the lesson or will it just be an added feature.

Despite the breakdowns I would experience from not understanding what was being taught in class, I was able to improve my situation. Instead of suffering in silence with my confusion, I began asking my teacher more questions during class lectures. I would even come in at seven in the morning to discuss my problem about understanding the logic behind the math with my teacher. Not only did I speak with my teacher more, I also bought a study book for the class and began watching Chemistry videos from Bozeman and Khan Academy to teach myself any topics that were not clear to me during class.

Regular classroom curriculum is not enough to help children with exceptionalities to learn what they need to know to advance in life. Assistive technologies are suggestions that can assist a child to learn to work independently and built self-esteem with their learning abilities. Whether the child has mild, moderate or severe, physical, or sensory disabilities, at risk behaviors, or are gifted and talented, there are a number of websites, software programs, or hardware to assist their individual learning styles.

Some people believe that computers distract students from learning the lesson of the day. There are those who don’t care if they use computers or not. Others believe that we should be able to use computers in schools and improves learning the class subjects.

Often when kids hear they get to use computers during their day at school they get excited, but not for the right reasons. When teachers allow their students to use technology in the classroom, it gets easily abused. This generation of kids and students are so reliant on technology to get them through the day that it has almost become a shortcut for assignments or notes. Some students also get far off task during the lesson that it reflects on their tests or assignments. Some people and some teachers believe that computers in the classroom are helpful, studies have proven otherwise. Although technology is very useful throughout the school day, students tend to distract themselves and it hinders their

4. Talk about one or two things you learned from reviewing the resources provided in the lesson.

Thus suggesting practitioners should embrace and accept the approach enabling them to “adopt learning strategies that embed the acquisition of knowledge and skills into meaningful context” (Macleod-Brudenell and Kay, 2008, p.311). Moss and Petrie (2002) support this concept by stating “pedagogy can be used to refer to whole domain of social responsibility for children, for their well-being, learning and competence” (p.138). Pugh and Duffy (2006) suggest a pedagogue is the one who leads and educates children’s learning. This effectively impacts upon children’s learning and enables them to become confident learners. As well as encouraging children to be in control of their own interests and learning (Every child matters, 2004).

The learning process is a highly complex one - no two children will learn in the exact same way. It is, therefore, important to understand how young people learn in order to use effective teaching strategies in the classroom which, in turn, will result in effective learning (Hallam & Ireson, 1999). There are a variety of different ways to learn and different theories underpinning it, this essay will consider three different learning approaches - behaviourism, constructivism and social constructivism, the change in teaching style from a traditional, didactic manner to an active approach and look at two different pedagogies – cooperative learning and outdoor learning, mainly fieldwork, that can be used to aid and support learning in Geography. Following this, the essay will argue how effective pedagogy can aid the teaching of one key aspect within the Geography curriculum, in this case Weather, and how this can be taught through the two pedagogies discussed in this essay.

Pedagogy is about learning, teaching and development, influenced by the cultural, social and political values and principles we have for children in Scotland, and underpinned by a strong theoretical and practical base. (Learning and Teaching Scotland 2005).

Education is one of the most important professions in the working world. Technology has done many things for us in today’s society especially for education and schools. Technology in the school system has impacted the students and teachers in many positive ways, including virtual field trips, testing tips, teacher resources, class web sites, and lesson plans. With computer use in our schools, we have access to many different sources and various types of learning.

The use of technology has the ability to allow teachers to teach the student, instead of teaching the grade level. Jon Bower, CEO of Lexia Learning Systems, points this fact out when he states,

1. Acquisition of Materials. Proper selection and acquisition of varied types of materials (books, periodicals, pamphlets, maps and other materials) needed to support the curriculum.