Technology in the Classroom

There is an ongoing debate in Academia regarding the role of technology in education. On one end of the spectrum are the traditional teachers whose attitude is essentially don't fix what isn't broken. They insist the traditional method of teaching, where a professor lectures at the chalkboard and the students take careful notes about what (s)he says, is the proper way to teach. Only student motivation needs to be addressed to help our failing education system. On the other end are those who say we could practically do away with the current classroom format since finally affordable technology is coming online that would allow students to learn via interactive programs and games thus doing away for the need for a full-time traditional teacher.

My personal viewpoint on this matter (which, I admit, is still being formed) is that the traditional classroom and teacher/student relationship should be maintained. However, new technologies should be appropriately integrated into this traditional setup. The following are the reasons why I believe technology can be useful in teaching.

• Young students already obtain MUCH information via television and computers (including video games). Why not use media that students are already familiar with to communicate to them the information they need.

• Computers and especially the internet offer a GREAT opportunity for students to interact with each other even when physically meeting together is impossible or problematic. WebCT's discussion forums and chat rooms are ideal for this purpose. Also, the teacher can participate in live study sessions the night before exams. I have already done this with success.

• Television and audio are essential in the language classroom. Students get the benefit of hearing native speakers talk and also learn a great deal about the body language of native speakers. Also, it is far more educational to WATCH a salsa dance than simply learn about it from one paragraph of text in a textbook.

• Using a single computer with overhead projector/screen in the classroom can allow professors to prepare their lectures on powerpoint allowing students receive input via clear, organized text and images. A far cry from the often poorly written notes on a chalkboard

These are just a few of the many uses for technology in a classroom. I will continually add information to this page so please keep coming back. In the meantime, if you're interested in how technology can play a role in teaching, I recommend the following entry-level books to get you started:

Empowering Teachers with Technology. Michael T. Romano (2003)

Recapturing Technology Education. Mark Gura (2005)

Also, check out WebCT, which is continuing to revolutionize the way students do homework, express themselves and communicate with the professor and other classmantes.