In everchanging times, technology has become a staple in most classrooms across the country. School districts have had to quickly open their mindset on how to use technology in effective ways that are also meaningful to the students. Some school districts have required the use of technology platforms to collect diagnostic data for years. What the pandemic has shown educators across the country is that technology, and knowing best practices for implementation, is essential. It can also be a useful tool for all stakeholders to stay connected. However, technology can create problems for these same stakeholders. This article will discuss the pros and cons of implementing technology platforms in the classroom.
There are many benefits of using technology platforms in the classroom. The first is that it provides teachers and students will real-time data. Teachers can use this to help provide interventions for students who are not yet mastering the objective. It also allows students immediate feedback on how they are progressing towards meeting their goals. (Brown, Casey, 2019)
Another benefit is giving students more choices and ownership over their own learning. This will increase engagement, and ultimately increase achievement. Many of the platforms that have been found to be effective in classrooms offer plans at no cost to the teacher or students. Utilizing these platforms, instead of paper resources end up being more cost effective for the school. (Brown, Casey, 2019)
In addition, educational platforms allow students the opportunity to learn and improve their own technology skills that are necessary to be competitive in today’s global economy. Many school district’s visions and missions include teaching the whole child and preparing them for the 21st century with needed skills. Utilizing various technology platforms can add to this mission. Platforms such as storyboard.com, Microsoft sway, or PowerPoint allow students to practice and use these skills in a meaningful way in the classroom. (Brown, Casey, 2019)
However, there are also cons of using technology platforms in the classroom. The first is distractions. If you are using a platform, such as Study Island, for whole group sessions, students can become distracted with other windows opened, and not benefit fully from the practice. Technology platforms could also open the door to the ability to cheat if not monitored properly. For example, if a teacher assigns an assessment to be completed online and does not require the students to complete it while under his supervision, this could lead to potential cheating. Though this is a con, it is one that could be easily addressed by requiring students to complete all online assessments in the classroom. Furthermore, access to technology for use outside of the classroom may not be equal for all students. Teachers need to be mindful of this when assigning required activities online. (Brown, Casey, 2019)
Some critics of technology in the classroom argue that computers are replacing teachers, and students are losing the critical face-to-face time needed as part of the learning process. However, I argue that when implemented effectively, technology can enhance and further support instruction after face-to-face interactions. Another complaint is that the use of technology adds to the ever-increasing amount of screen time for kids. Though, not wrong, I argue that screen time with an educational focus, is not detrimental for students. (Brown, Casey, 2019)
Implementing technology effectively in the classroom requires proper professional development and clear implementation expectations for teachers. In addition, teachers must set clear expectations for students for proper use, and expectations for parents as to what online platforms may be utilized outside of the classroom. Furthermore, it is in the school’s best interest to provide opportunities for students to access these platforms in the school building so that equal access is not ever an issue.
References
Brown, Casey. (May 16, 2019). 12 pros and cons of technology in the classroom. Retrieved July 2, 2021 from https://www.classcraft.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-technology-in-the-classroom/