Technology has changed how we live, especially for students in school. Technology has a big impact on how children learn.
Technology in Contemporary Education
When considering how technology affects education, it’s essential to look at it from different viewpoints: how parents see it, how teachers see it, and most importantly, how it affects students. We also need to understand what “technology” means today.
Thirty years ago, “new technology in the classroom” meant students learning to type on computers using word processing software (like Microsoft Word) and saving their work to a floppy disk. But now, students have grown up in a world with screens and keyboards. So, how does this technology influence students today?
Student Impact
Modern technology has brought many benefits to students in the classroom. One of the most important benefits is the convenience and ease of access it provides for learning. For example, carrying heavy textbooks has been a common issue for students.
A study in 2004 found that students were carrying more weight than is recommended for their health.
Digital textbooks, or e-textbooks, solve this problem by being cheaper, better for the environment, and offering interactive features for students. Over three-quarters of teachers now offer classroom materials in a digital format, showing that both students and teachers find digital textbooks convenient. This change in the format of textbooks is just one way that technology has made a big impact on student’s lives, even if they may not realize it.
Technology’s Impact on Parents and Teachers
Technology has improved communication between parents and teachers. Parents can now easily email or message their child’s teacher whenever they have comments or concerns. This is a big change from before when parents would only talk to teachers during parent-teacher nights or pre-arranged conference meetings.
Additionally, technology allows parents to better track their child’s progress in school. In the past, students brought home physical report cards or had them mailed. Now, parents receive detailed digital report cards that provide a breakdown of their child’s academic performance, participation, and classroom behavior. This makes it much easier for parents to stay informed about their child’s progress.