If there were any facet of life that could be labeled as changing at “light speed,” that industry would have to be technology. Technology is changing at such a rapid pace most consumers can barely keep up. Gadget users are just getting used to their shiny new smartphones when another upgrade is rolling off the production lines. Beyond hand-held technology, computing devices are light years better than technological tools of the past. One area that technology has heavily impacted is that of education. While technology has changed the landscape of the mainstream classroom, it has completely changed the realm of instruction for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other disabilities. Since 2015, I have served in various roles within the Special Education department of Frederick County Public Schools. Having worked closely with some of the most challenged students, I have personally witnessed the benefits of technology for students diagnosed with Autism. Technology is beyond helpful; however, it is continuously changing at a rapid pace that causes school staff and parents always to be evaluating what tool is best for the student. Devices and applications are not only transforming the classroom, but that are giving individuals with ASD more freedom and confidence than ever before. Finally, parents and school staff must be intentional about finding the correct device and apps for the students and integrate them with intentionality.
Since the internet
The speed of technology is growing at an exponential rate. In this digital age, students have more opportunities through electronic products such as computers, tablets, and mobile devices. The average student graduating from college in the United States has spent less than 5,000 hours on studying, but 10,000 hours on computer games or social networking. Moreover, since 2012, as many as sixty-three percent of universities offer online courses. Educational leaders throughout the U.S. are using electronic devices to try to engage students in a classroom setting through familiar technology. But are electronic devices good for the growth of education? Low standardized test scores show that students that use electronic devices for schoolwork
As a teacher, we must learn how to achieve academic success in the classroom and with our students. The educator philosophers Borich and Wong have different points of view of how learning should be taught. Borich focuses on how technology integrates in the classroom, also on how questioning strategies help with targeting inquiry, and how teacher directed strategies help improve learners to actively respond. On the other hand, Wong focuses on everything you need to prepare for when you as the teacher have your own classroom such as: having a well-managed classroom, how to introduce yourself to your class, seating arrangements, grading systems, discipline plans, and how to achieve opportunities to learn. Consequently, the teacher should be able to balance the way the classroom acts expressively, and the same time encourage them to be culturally responsive to learning.
The learning place has been invaded by the ability to know anything and everything. While this picture shows promise, it is actually more complex and distorted with regards to the receivers; these would be the students of today. What makes us capable of distributing the infinite amount of information that can be labeled “anything and everything” is truly remarkable, and that is precisely what technology has allowed us to do. Being that, it is safe to say that technology has expanded to heights worth exploring, and while this brings good resources to the pupils of today, it is the way students will explore and discover through the internet that should be taken into consideration by their teachers before introducing it to the curriculum.
Technology is quickly developing as a method of communication and information for people everywhere. As technology becomes a part of education, it captures the attention of students in a special way of its own. Although technology is fairly new, technology draws the attention of students because it is interactive and offers many different methods of learning and information for students.
Supporters of technological advancements and advocates of expanding the use of technology would have us believe that the continual expansion of technology and support of its usage in school systems is a clear betterment of humanity. They explain its effectiveness and ability to level the playing field for millions of civilians. However, these advocates fail to acknowledge the obvious downfalls and stagnation, or even reversion of societal advancements. Technology diminishes skills, encourages the demotivation of children, and steals away precious time. What is often viewed narrow mindedly as an obvious good that solely progresses nations is concurrently becoming an inhibitor and its implementation in educational curriculum should be viewed with a wary eye.
In education today there is new in sight to link educational strategies, programs, initiatives, or technology so students can achieve there goals of passing their classes. There are many groups and organizations that are trying to advance technology literacy for students. In all aspects of our society, technology has revolutionized in so many ways ,plus enhancing our way of life. It’s no surprise that the public,researchers and others have the question on why hasn’t technology affect education yet?. But over the past 20 years there have been so many advancements in information and new tools that are being used to increase human knowledge. With all of the available technology and information researchers showed that integration of 21st Century technology increases student achievement and some college students shown a huge advancement in test and exam results.
All across the globe, new technologies are being developed to help with everyday activities. Those technologies will always be updated and eventually outdated. Technologies help make the world an easier place to live in. Technological advancements have given the modern world the push it needed to start being more efficient with our resources. Technology enable us to do stuff we could normally only wish about doing. Technology makes advancements in all different industries and improves the product produced by that industry. One of the industries most impacted by technology is education. Education is the most important industry that new technologies are used to make the process more effective. In schools, laptops and smart boards are allowing kids to interact better with the curriculum. Technologies allow kids to learn more effectively, reduce paper waste, and allow the smartest generation in years to form.
Many are misled regarding technology in schools because they fail to realize the difference between technology usage and technology integration. Technology usage focuses on the physical device, delivering information, and majority conduct comes from the teacher; whereas, technology integration supports the physical device to promote learning objectives, constructs knowledge, and allows students to operate it themselves (Harris 7). This is what separates technology efficient schools from the rest, technology is not their goal, education is (Levin and Schrum 51-53). Instead of taking a “one size fits all approach”, schools are able to succeed because they make learning relevant, provide opportunities, and promote important skills by integrating technology with curriculum. After using that method, and providing a laptop for every student in the school district, Mooresville, North Carolina dramatically improved high school standardized test proficiency from 68% to 88.5% (Levin and Schrum 51-53). However, Robert Kozma argues, ‘“What are the actual and potential relationships between media and learning?”’ (qtd. in Harris 2). Other critics have also stated concerns that technology does not influence achievement, teachers need training to effectively administer usage, and making sure every student has access. On the other hand, proponents of classroom technology say it allows creativity and is better fit for today’s society. Public schools across the United States, from low to high
The production of technology as increased, allowing the output of information to exponentially increase, thus setting the need for 21st century skills at an all-time high. In the past, there have been two sources of information, the encyclopedia, and the dictionary. Our education system’s foundation has been built through the knowledge, and information handed down by each generation. The learning, and memorization of facts was the ultimate goal in a child’s education. As a country, it is important to evolve as our culture evolves. Everything must continue to grow in unity, and progress together. Having the technology that produces a vast amount of information, but no students who can decipher the information, ends up being a waste of time, and resources.
When implemented technology properly, the tech can produce substantial gains in student achievement and increase engagement among students most at risk. Replacing teachers with technology is not a successful formula. Instead, strong gains in achievement occur by pairing technology with classroom teachers who provide real-time support and encouragement to underserved students. Technology has made a positive difference in the learning outcomes of students at risk of failing courses and dropping out.
Of the many challenges facing educators today is the fact that our world is an ever-changing and rapidly evolving one as technology and an expanding global society become more and more prevalent in all that we do. Never before in history have we been more connected to one another via digital mediums. From our laptops to our iPhones, social media and apps, how we communicate has been heavily influenced by the rise of technology across the globe. Further, technology has infiltrated our classrooms in profound ways. Not only do presentations call for technology, but with the rising use of iPads, Chromebooks, online/ blended learning approaches, and various media platforms in education, it is clear that technology is continually emerging all around us. It is also expected to be a part of students’ learning experiences according to national and state standards. Thus, it is not only important, but crucial, for educators of today to wisely -- and purposefully -- incorporate technology into instruction in order to facilitate students most effectively on their learning journeys. As 21st century learners and educators, it is critical for all involved in education to understand and utilize the skills which are needed most in this current climate. It is the specific four skills of critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity - the 4Cs - that have been highlighted as “the basic skills that all students need in the 21st century” (National Education Association, 2014).
Despite its importance, writing is not given enough attention in schools compare to reading. Since the turn of the 21st century, “there have been a number of significant changes in the contexts in which we teach and in which our students learn to write”. Our culture has taken a digital shift in all aspects of life, including schooling and the way students are exposed to writing curriculum. Robinson, McKenna and Conradi state that “The context of schooling has also changed, with programs and practices affected most directly by an emphasis on standards and assessments as a part of a growing concern with accountability. Given a focus on reading, rather than writing or literacy more generally…this movement has had an impact on teaching and learning at all levels of public education” (Robinson, McKenna & Conradi, 2012, p. 243).
For years people have been searching for a more efficient way to learn; ways such as flashcards, textbooks, and agendas. Unfortunately, these techniques are not always reliable, or easy to access. Luckily, due to recent tests, educators have discovered that the use of technology has surprisingly proved as a more effective class source. After this study many schools and educators began to use technology as an everyday in-class resource, but there are still many teachers who fail to see technology’s impact. Those who do not use technology do not realize that technology can be compatible and convenient in any environment, is constantly being updated with new resources, and it helps give students a better understanding of a specific class
Technology has been evolving over thousands of years and it has provided humans with education, better health care, and communication that is the key to making our world a better place for future generations to come. Technology is a field of knowledge having to do with the practical applications of science and industry or the inventions and methods of solving problems that are produced through research in these areas. It has helped the school system, the medical field, and provided us with communication that can connect us to everything across the globe. These systems are the keys that make our world work in an efficient way, maybe not all the time, but enough so the world doesn’t just fall apart. In our society, technology has evolved the
The world we live in today is surrounded by new and innovative technology there are new phones and computers coming out every day. Kids are exposed to technology early on and it tends to become an integral part of their lives. From daily activities to educational programs and so you can find technologies everywhere computers, internet, TVs, and other technological components at any school, household or even electronic playground. Technology is amazing and has made everyday life much easier, but "the disruptive nature of technology" takes a turn when it comes to children. However, some people believe that technology is a good approach when it involves education and that it is a faster more effective way to impact their future educational performance. Some people even believe it is an essential need to know how to work technology. Consequently it takes a dark turn on developing kids "Dr. Aric Sigma, a leading psychologist, said "The problem with this generation is that we accept there should be limits on the consumption of many things, such as sunlight, or sugar and salt, but screen time is not something that is thought of as consumption. It's important to impose boundaries, rules, and limits."" In 2016 important leaders from political leaders to businessmen go for "annual meeting to discuss the world's big issue", and in 2016 the most overreaching issue was technology and how it impacts the world. This is an issue that should be acknowledged and addressed regularly by especially adults because they are the one raising the future generation. And "while technology can be an incredible thing, it is obviously important to maintain a balance between the cyber world and real world" and should be regulated by not only at home but at schools and libraries too.