The question of whether technology has as place in today's classroom is one of great debate. While it is obvious that the world relies upon technology for many reasons these days, not everyone believes that it belongs in the classroom. Can computers replace teachers? Certainly not- but can they help to enhance one's learning experience? Absolutely. How important is technology in education?
Giving Children a Chance
Incorporating computers into one's lesson plan should be mandatory for every teacher. Though there are some who may be near retirement, and therefore not computer savvy, this should not be a factor when considering if children deserve computers in class. Some school districts may rely upon computers more than others, but when balanced with other lessons taught throughout the day, the use of technology can have a positive effect. No child should walk across any stage to graduate elementary school without having computer lessons of some sort- and in this time of economic turmoil, it should not be assumed that every household is computer equipped. For some, the technology interactions within the school day will be the only chance a child gets to use such equipment. This makes computer use that much more urgent, and therefore should be made mandatory- especially in schools with predominately low income students.
For Every Positive There's a Negative
As with anything in life, using computers in schools is like a double edged sword. For instance, in Eagle County, CO, there were three foreign language teachers who unfortunately lost their jobs, and were replaced with online instruction. This of course is an unfortunate situation, however due to the county's budget, it was a decision which had to be made. Because of situations like this, many teachers are intimidated by the overuse of computers in the classroom, as they do not wish to be made obsolete.
Classrooms Need Computers
Aside from the unfortunate situations which can occur due to technology being implemented in the classroom, there is every reason to make it a rule of thumb for all districts. One reason is because of the additional skills which could be learned. Lets face it, teachers do not know it all, however with the aide of computerized lessons, children will have the chance to learn things they otherwise would never have the chance to. This is not to say that teachers are not educated, however there are schools which do not produce graduates who are at college level, which means that they are not getting the required lessons in school. If given the chance with an online lesson, perhaps some of these children could go on to attend Ivy league colleges, much like their counterparts in affluent areas- which have better schools. The importance of technology in education is profound when considered on this level.
Free Time Could Make a Big Difference
There is a lot of time which can be saved by the use of computers in the classroom, giving teachers the time to work on other things. Better lessons plans which lead to smarter children will eventually prove the importance of technology in education. Not everything can be taught online, therefore children who have an hour of instruction a day will allow for their teachers to perfect their lesson which must be taught manually. Perhaps this can shift the balance which some teachers complain about regarding the workload, and too many students. Being able to work on things for an extra hour, may be just the time they need to make each day more beneficial for everyone involved.
Keeping Things Honest
Computers don't cheat. Well, unless someone goes in and manipulates scores. This could very well ignite the flames for using these gadgets in classrooms- particularly high schools, where some sports have become priority, and stars must be given passing scores. Having to take online classes could prove beneficial, as scores and grades would be computerized- and kept on an "honest" level. This would also put an end to students who graduate elementary school barely knowing how to read- or comprehend what has been read. This will force students to read more, as lessons would require comprehending what is being taught. Yet again, the importance of technology in education would clearly be seen, as less adults will be stuck with what is normally considered "a fifth grade education."
Educational Success
Though computers are a part of everyday life for most people these days, it has not encompassed the entire nation. This is why children should be given the chance to learn all they can concerning computer use while in elementary school, and continuing on in high school. Teachers should never be replaced by computers, because computers have no heart. It is evident that children need the support of teachers, with many even going as far to say they would have never succeeded without them. This further proves what is only obvious in today's world- computers are going nowhere- for some they've become basic necessities, and everyone has a favorite teacher who had an impact on their life in one way or another. Therefore, the two must learn to live and work together, as they are both essential to every child's educational success.
