The Pros And Cons Of Technology In The Classroom

The introduction of technology in education has changed the way students learn and how teachers deliver their lessons. There are many benefits that come with this change. Students can have more interactive lessons with their teachers. They can also learn at their own pace. There are disadvantages as well. Students can be easily distracted and become too dependent on technology.

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Pros

You can learn anywhere

Technology had made it possible for people to learn anywhere in the world. Online education is growing tremendously around the world. There is no need to be physically present at a school you wish to study at. Online education gives students more flexibility. It is cheaper to study online. Technology brings the classroom to your home.

It makes the lesson fun

I use to get excited when the teacher brings a DVD to class. Watching educational movies was more interesting than listening to the teacher’s monotonous voice. The lesson can be more interactive. This motivates your students to learn. Teachers can change the lesson style by using technology such as computers, projectors, and tablets.

Easy to manage students’ progress

Technology can help teachers to manage the students’ progress. For example in online schools teachers can see when students complete their courses and quiz. They can see how well their students are doing. Technology has made storage easier. You monitor the students progress by looking at how well they have done throughout a certain period. You can determine if they have improved or otherwise.

Students can learn at their own pace

Some students are introverts and they will not participate in class. If teachers develop an online platform for students to utilize, they can get the students to participate in discussions. They will not be shy to ask questions. They can send a private message if the platform allows it. There are many Facebook groups that are created to enhance learning outside of the classrooms. Teachers can go through concepts that were not covered in the classrooms.

Accommodate students with special needs

Technology has made it possible for students with disabilities to learn just like normal children. There are many schools that cannot accommodate special students because they lack the resources. A visually impaired student can use braille to access information and submit an assignment. Before technology that could assist disabled student existed, these students use to stay at home. They were prevented from having a formal education. Technology has made it possible to educate disabled students.

Cons

Students can become too dependent

Technology has brought many benefits however, students can become too dependent on technology. Instead of going to the library to do research. They can access information on the internet which is not always accurate. Students need to be careful and use the resources that they have properly.

Distractions

Teachers have complained about how students are using the computers for social purposes instead of learning and studying. In computer science class, students can be easily distracted by visiting non-educational websites. Teachers have to monitor the computer to ensure that students are not losing their focus.

Loss of connection

Some people will argue that people are moving away from traditional education. Online learning will not build certain skills such as social and team building. Virtual learning is not the same as tradition learning. People have formed precious relationships at school. It is very important that we still keep the traditional style even though virtual learning has its benefits.

Wrapping up

Technology has been incorporated into education because of the wonderful benefits. It can help teachers to change their teacher style and keep the students interested. On the other hand, technology can be distracting and students can become too dependent on it.