Tri-digital learning
Balancing the past, present, and future as an educator
An introduction
Technology can be an intimidating thing. I can admit that I tend to stick with the digital tools that I know well rather than striving to find and utilize a tool that may be better. Not only is this limiting because it leaves me stick in the past, using software that has been updated and perfected, it also could impede my success in the future as an educator. I would like to teach English at the secondary level. Yet, my role is not limited to staying stringently within the borders of the English curriculum. With integrative teaching, I should be striving to plan and implement lessons which benefit students in a multitude of ways. One incorporation is the use of current technology. Teacher should be learning constantly, about their field, current research in development and educational psychology, and technological advancements. One of their roles is to incorporate current technology into their classroom and help their students to learn and understand how to utilize new tools. This also means keeping their eyes pointed toward the future, in order to stay current, an educator should be knowledgeable about changes that are on the horizon, as they will soon become the present tools and the present tools can fast become tools of the past. This presentation will cover important points about the past, present and future of technology in education and why it is crucial to strive to find a happy medium between the three.
The past
These older tools can still be used, but moderation is key. Don't be afraid to look for upgrades to replace tools that have become outdated either.
The present
Using the most current tools and software can help motivates students and help them stay engaged and excel in the classroom. It can help to create more inclusive and exciting lessons.
The future
Staying educated on technology can keep teachers on the cutting age of the digital advancements. At the pace technology is moving at, the future is never very far from becoming the present.
Upgrading to the new: benifits
Not only is utilizing newer technological tools intellectually beneficial by expanding the knowledge of both the teacher and the student, there are additional benefits as well. See some of the following links to see some of the potential benefits.
- Teaching without textbooks by Rob Weir
- Effects of Technology on Classrooms and Students has a multitude of different listed benefits
New Study Highlights 5 Benefits of Emerging Classroom Technology by Christopher Machielse
Overall, the benefits of implementing digital tools into the classroom can improve retention and attention in students, increase academic motivation, increase classroom enthusiasm and attendance, and create a more positive student-teacher relationship.