The Changing Faces of Technology in Education

Throughout history there have been many key developments in teaching with technology.  I believe the most significant ones to be:

1. The use of computers in classrooms.
2. The availability of the internet in classrooms.
3. The availability of tablets for student use.
4. Tools such as the interactive whiteboard and smart response resources.

The reason I feel that having computers in a classroom was a key development is it adds to the curriculum being taught.  It allows the students to learn in a different way.  With the use of computers in classrooms children are exposed to technology at an earlier age than when I was younger. This prepares them for incorporating technology into their lives.

I remember using these in Computer Labs in Elementary School.  Do you?

Once computers were available in classrooms the next key development was the internet.  Having the internet available in classrooms means that students are able to access a variety of resources for research. They are also able to connect with others around the world to learn from each other.

With the development of tablets in today's society technology is advancing in leaps and bounds.  The way some schools are incorporating the use of tablets is to provide each student with one to be used in their classrooms.  These tablets then let the students do their work on there to be sent to the teacher by email.  This also gives them a ready resource for studying.

The use of interactive whiteboards and smart response resources are the newer technologies being used.  These types of systems allow the students to become a part of the lesson.  They provide interactive features for both the younger learners and those with special needs.  This allows them to be more fully involved in the lesson. 

I found this link to be informative.
Interactive Whiteboard Smart Response Systems

Technology has changed a lot since I was in elementary school.  I remember teachers using overhead projectors to enhance a lesson.  In middle school we used computers to type up reports but they were not available in every classroom.  In high school, the use of technology was still not as advanced as it is now.  Now I am taking courses online to complete my Bachelors Degree.

I believe that the different types of technology that was used in the school system helped me to learn better.  I am the type of learner that likes to see how something works and then try it for myself.  With all the resources available online and many instructional videos that can be found on any subject I believe that technology helps to improve anyone's ability to learn.