iClassroom

iClassroom How Technology shapes the modern classroom.

"Why am I hearing so much about technology in the classroom?"

Over the last two decades, technology has become a dominant force in everyday life, and society has become increasingly reliant on it.

2016 statistics state that U.S. schools provide at least one computer (or device) for every five students, and nationwide spending on digital content for schools is now over 3 billion dollars (Herold, 2016).

As of 2010: “Keystone School Districts will increase teacher knowledge of technology use and integration across the curriculum. Teachers will receive training and support as availability of online resources for instruction increases and as equipment and hardware are updated” (PDE, p. 4).

“About 88% of our students feel that technology makes learning more interesting, and an average of 82% feel technology makes it easier to learn new things. Also, 87.5% feel that having computers in the classroom is an advantage for learning” (PDE, p. 3).

"What's the big deal?"

Technology has become an ingrained part of students’ cultural identity, and attempts to remove personal technology from the classroom environment can be detrimental, to the students’ learning and engagement.

“By training students to use technology appropriately and effectively and providing opportunities for them to reach learning targets through its usage, we create a situation in which students are engaged in learning. We also free ourselves from the constant cycle of fighting against students” (Kuntz, p. 24).

However, “...a significant body of research has also made clear that most teachers have been slow to transform the ways they teach, despite the influx of new technology into their classrooms” (Herold para. 4).

"What are the experts saying?"

"What are some of the benefits of having technology in the classroom?"

Educational technology allows teachers to easily practice differentiated instruction.

Technology can make lectures more entertaining and engaging.

Technology makes it easier for students to access information and allows for more creativity in their work.

Communication between teachers, parents, and students is much easier through technology.

Technology provides students with choices in how they will learn, which improves decision-making skills.

"What about the drawbacks?"

Some technology is English-centric and can pose challenges to students who are learning English.

Technology can become a distraction in the classroom.

Teachers may not be properly trained in the technology, and won't use it to its fullest potential.

"So what can parents do?"

Remember that technology has changed the way that classrooms look. Learning looks very different today than it did when parents were in school.

Keep an eye on your child's usage of social media and personal devices like laptops and cell phones.

Talk to your child about responsible technology usage.

And please reach out to your child's teachers if you have any questions or concerns!

Page created by- Julia Elberfeld, Damien Glover, Elisabeth Kitch, and Alex Warfield

Fall 2017- EDUC 314- Penn State Harrisburg

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