Technology, specifically computers and computer based lessons, is a great thing for students. Being technologically literate, as discussed in earlier blogs, is just as important as being literate in reading and writing. Though technology will drastically change by the time present elementary students enter the work force, they will still grasp a basic knowledge of how modern technology operates (http://j.mp/PgzEE ). But what happens to the role of the teacher if the students are acting more and more independently?
The answer is simple. The teacher becomes more like a facilitator (http://j.mp/PgzEE). They set up goals and make the guidelines clear for each project the students undertake. While independent or group work is being done on the computers, the teacher should travel around and encourage the students. They can help correct an error if they catch it right away and suggest different ways of accomplishing each task. It is as if the teacher has become the coach as the students “actively make choices about how to generate, obtain, manipulate, or display information” ( http://j.mp/PgzEE ). Recent case studies reveal that students are able to handle more complex assignments because of the “supports and capabilities provided by technology” ( http://j.mp/PgzEE ). Some students who are especially technologically savvy also have the opportunity to help the teacher and show fellow students extra tips and tricks. By allowing this, the student’s self esteem will definitely improve ( http://j.mp/PgzEE ) .
All in all, technology is now an indispensable tool in the classroom. If technology is used in the right way alongside lesson plans which include clear, concise objectives, students will learn more content knowledge and will become more comfortable on the tools they are using for their assignments.
kids on computers
Above blog used http://j.mp/PgzEE for facts, quotes, and reference. Picture from http://www.ehow.com/how_2100775_study-computers-classroom.html
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