What is technology in education

The use of technology in education becomes necessary, nowadays, since studies proved that the use of technology in education brings positive results to the student's learning outcomes. Besides, technology helps the teacher to work with comfort and efficiency.

1. What is technology in education?

It is the process that targets human education, through systematic methods, and the achievement of educational goals efficiently and effectively. In other words, the use of machines, equipment, and devices in education to reach a better educational system.

2. The importance of using technology in education

The use of technology in education is very important.

- Helping students to participate in education positively, by diversifying the way lessons are presented through new mechanisms and tools.

- Technology in education helps the teacher use sophisticated methods in presenting the study material, thus making it easier for students to learn the information.

- Contributes to raising the productivity of the educational system on the qualitative and quantitative sides, and the qualitative aspect is the selection of study materials that have a life benefit, and the quantitative aspect is the amount of information that can be acquired.

- Avoids forgetfulness and speed of remembering through stimulating and interesting means.

- It motivates students to think, and then liberate the creativity of some who need motivation.

- Reducing time in education, rather than relying on traditional teaching styles, which require a large amount of time.

- Technology in education helps to provide opportunities, and creates other qualities, such as collaborative education and student self-assessment.

3. Advantages of technology in education

3.1 A variety of modalities

The use of a multimedia projector for example; can already bring a lot in terms of lessons. In other words, the audiovisual inputs make the teaching and learning process more efficient.

3.2 Develop problem-solving skills

The use of technological tools that you use must be meaningful. It is believed that the technology used in the classroom should help students develop essential skills such as problem solving and teamwork.

3.3 Improve memorization

Technology in the classroom can facilitate an increase in the amount of information retained. However, the teacher has to be careful on how to incorporate technology in the lessons.

3.4 Facilitate individual learning

Technology provides solutions that facilitate educational differentiation. Activities can be created to suit the unique needs and rhythms of each learner.

3.5 Preparing students for the future

Given the way technological advances are taking place, it is clear that the future will be digital and technology-driven. If students know how to use technology to collaborate and communicate now, they will have no trouble integrating, competing and finding jobs in the future. Being familiar with the use of at least one form of technology at a young age will help them to become familiar with its use and, possibly, to acquire other skills necessary to use other innovative devices and processes.

3.6 Allows teachers to create an exciting way to educate students

The days when the only teaching tools were limited to books, the blackboard or whiteboard, chalk or markers are done. Thanks to the integration of technology in education, teachers can now integrate images, videos and other graphics into their lessons. Specific websites, applications and programs will also allow teachers to vary the way they give instructions. This creates an exciting learning environment and stimulates interest in education in general.

Related: The impact of technology on children

4. Disadvantages of technology in education

4.1 Lack of interest in studies

Because everything is now accessible online or through data saved on a computer or mobile device, students are likely to develop poor study habits and a lazy attitude toward education. Some of them may even think they can skip school because they can find answers and lessons online.

4.2 Makes students vulnerable to potential pitfalls

If the computer is a valuable educational tool, it can also cause problems. This is especially true for students who lack the skills to maximize the functionality of a device. Technical problems and computer malfunctions can lead to the loss of homework and other documents, resulting in high levels of stress that students prefer not to experience. The difference between internet speeds and the capabilities of a device can also cause some difficulties that will demotivate students.

4.3 May decrease the value of education

Although research on e-learning has not directly linked to how personal interaction affects student achievement, the data collected has shown that those who enroll in online courses are more likely to fail, drop out of school and are less likely to benefit from it. This can be explained by the fact that the lessons given online or through digital resources do not have the face-to-face interaction between the teacher and the student which allows a more personal experience.

4.4 The student may have a decreased level of proficiency and skill in writing, or even a low level of writing style.

Originally published on Live Positively.