Technology has changed the landscape of learning and teaching, but without numerous challenges for both the educator and the learner. This is noticeable on all levels of pedagogical education from early childhood to adult education. Curriculums as well as delivery methods changed from traditional methods to blended and integrated design learning. The design process with educators and learners still presents obstacles today, especially when collaborating with learners. (Sharpe, 2020)
The learning environment requires student input to ensure relevant technology is suitable for the curriculum and delivery of content. Educators being mindful of this face many budgetary challenges to achieve these goals. Software and hardware can be very expensive and educators find these decisions testing when staying within budgetary limits.
Correct technology needs to be relevant for the subject and topic on hand. Mandating specific technology can leave teachers without the tools and skills to integrate that technology into their teaching techniques. The technology is then underutilised and used in a way that reflects older teaching methods rather than integrating the technology to improve on delivery. The result being unbeneficial for the learner and educator (Nelson n.d.). e.g., If Quizlet (the flash reinforcement app) is mandated and the teacher does not utilise this technology to blend in with content and delivery? It can be loss to both the educator and learner financially and educationally.
Other challenges which present themselves, are resistant to change where educators see technological experimentation outside the job descriptions, personalise learning where technology is not personalised for specific learners and failure to use technology with formative assessment practices to suit the specific technology (“Top 5 Benefits of Technology in the Classroom,” n.d.). Considering this, Spiral and Pear deck are great tools where technology integrates successfully with formative assessment (“Top Tech Tools for Formative Assessment,” n.d.).
Despite there being challenges, there are many benefits where technology adds value to the teaching and learning environment. Technology creates an engaged environment where there is advance collaboration and participation between the educator, peers and the learner. It incorporates and encourages different delivery and learning styles to traditional teaching. Lastly, it prepares both adults and children for future education and the workplace.
Technology is here to stay in regard integration with education, even though challenging environments presents themselves with the educator and learner, the benefits will override the challenges.
References
Dr. Lorraine Nelson, D. J. L.-T. J. W. (n.d.). “Teaching with Technology A Guide for Teachers.” from https://cmuedtech.atavist.com/teaching-with-technology.
Education, C. S. (n.d.). “Top Tech Tools for Formative Assessment.” Retrieved April 3, 2021, 2021, from https://www.commonsense.org/education/top-picks/top-tech-tools-for-formative-assessment.
Sharpe, H. B. a. R. (2020). Rethinking Pedagogy for a Digital Age Principles and Practices of Design. New York and London Routledge.
University, W. (n.d.). “Top 5 Benefits of Technology in the Classroom.” Retrieved April 01, 2021, 2021, from https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/education/resource/top-five-benefits-of-technology-in-the-classroom.