Technology in Education: New Ways of Learning

Today I have Debra Johnson as guest blogger. Please be sure to check out her unique guest post. Guest posts are always welcome, please contact me.

It used to be when the terminology “technology in education” was tossed around in almost any circle of discussion, the picture conjured in the minds of the individuals was that of the teacher standing at the front of the room talking through his or her lesson supplemented by the use of the classic PowerPoint. Think about it in today’s context, though.

Technology in education.Technology in general. It has all expanded. With the development of technology for use at large in today’s society, education has also benefited. Walk into any classroom today and you are likely to find any number of technological pieces being used in innovative and effective ways.

1. Research—So, looking at some of the more obvious uses and developments first. Research in the classroom has been revolutionized by technology. Gone are the days of pulling out the archaic and out-of-date encyclopedia and in are the days of pulling up a database of hundreds of thousands of articles, journals, online encyclopedias, and other means of finding information. Some may argue that this advent has caused the loss of the art of book research, which to some extent it probably has, but it has also become a skill in itself. The skill that has developed with online research has rendered the necessity of being a more discerning researcher, filtering out the “weeds” to find and use only the true information; of becoming an up-to-date analyst, as information is updated so quickly it is vital to make sure the information one is presenting is the most current; and of maintaining effective compilation, being that so much information is available one must be able to sort through it and summarize.

2. E-learning—With the advancement of wireless internet, high-speed connections, and more cost effective computing availabilities, online learning is on a rise, for good reason. With this development, a variety of options for learning have surfaced: full-time, for-profit virtual schools state-sponsored virtual schools, supplemental online learning courses offered by current residential schools, as well as charter schools coupling digitally-presented material with in-person instruction. Not only does e-learning better utilize available resources, it also supplements a greater variety of course offerings virtually (no pun intended) anywhere.

3. Mobile Computing—Let’s face it. Kids like gadgets. So, why not let them use their gadgets for learning? Rather than simply having students complete individual seatwork, the movement is toward engaging students in active learning experiences using SmartBoards, iPads, classroom clicker sets, and others. While somewhat unconventional, school systems may even support the incorporation of smart phones and other communication systems to support online learning communities and social networking.

When it comes down to it, today is an age of technological advancement. These are just a few of the ways technology is being incorporated in today’s classrooms. And, with the further development of technology itself, we will only see education continue to transform as well.

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http://mothermiser.com/2012/05/03/fun-activities-that-get-your-kids-moving/

About the Author:
This guest post is contributed by Debra Johnson, blogger and editor of nanny housekeeper.
She welcomes your comments at her email. 

Many thanks to Debra.
Enjoy your reading!