Technology in Education

        The article entitled "3 Things Great Teachers Do with Technology",” written by the director of EdTech Teacher, Tom Daccord, discusses three ways in which educators can effectively use technology to support their teaching. The article reminded me of a discussion a professor had with my class about designing lesson plans. He told his class of future educators that selecting learning goals should be done before choosing engaging activities. “It is okay to use glitter and cotton balls!” said my professor, “Just make sure that they are helping students achieve the learning goal chosen.” Daccord's ideas about integrating technology are similar to my professor's beliefs about cotton balls and glitter. Daccord states that students may find technology “cool and engaging - but if the teacher hasn’t defined why they’re using that tool, its integration has no clear, educational purpose” (1). The author lists three ways in which teachers can use technology in their classrooms.
        The first way Daccord suggests teachers can effectively include technology in their teaching is by empowering students through creativity. Students are able to demonstrate their knowledge in various ways by using technology. For examples, learners are able to type assignments, create presentations, or even record a song. Allowing students to use their creativity will motivate them to complete their assignments and learn the information more thoroughly.
        Technology also provides students with the opportunity to connect with other learners. Skype, FaceTime, and other video chats allow students from different cities, states, and even countries to communicate. This makes learning much more interesting and meaningful. Instead of reading about a country in a textbook, students are able to connect with another student in that area and see or hear first hand about their culture.
        Danccord’s third argument for using technology in the classroom is that students remember the facts and concepts longer than if they simply memorized information for a test. Using technology to create a project requires students to spend time reading, analyzing, and outlining a project.
        Technology can be very beneficial for elementary education students if there is a purpose and goal for its use. I agree with Daccord that technology helps students become engaged and motivated to learn when used correctly.