How to use technology in the classroom?

By Michael Hilkemeijer

 

The introduction of technology into the classroom, as well as technological advances such as allowing personal computers and other mobile devices to become faster, smaller, and easier to use, has been rapid. These possibilities have ensured that opportunities and challenges have presented themselves to teachers and students in equal measure.

 

There are many benefits of integrating technology in the classroom such as providing instant access to information and also allowing teachers to deliver the curriculum to all students. Uses of technology in the classroom enable students to engage in their learning and the implementation of digital technology also creates pathways for differentiated instruction with technology.

 

You will find over 60 + online technology in the classroom professional development (i.e. ICT in Education Teacher Academy)

 

 

What does technology integration mean in Primary education?

The integration of technology in the classroom really means the use of technology in the classroom by the teacher in student learning activities. Technology use in the classroom should always be ‘transparent’ or to put it another way, the students hardly know that they are using when they are working on the learning outcomes that you have set for them.

This is the best way to develop student ICT capability within meaningful and purpose-driven contexts.

 

How to integrate technology in the classroom?

There is a common misconception that the simple use of technology in the classroom would be sufficient. Just exposing children to technology is not enough and will only result in mediocre lessons that focus little more than skills and techniques.

 

Another misconception is that the use of technology in the classroom can be a financial burden for schools. However, students do not necessarily need their own tablets or laptops to succeed with technology. Whole class instruction can foster student engagement for auditory and visual learners.

 

Here are some ideas that will learn you learn how to use technology in the classroom.

 

PowerPoint and Games

Presentation software like PowerPoints is commonly used in education setting – teachers will often present lessons using PowerPoint or Keynote, and students often use them for assessment. PowerPoint presentations can be used to introduce a classroom concept while providing opportunity for engagement. Bulleted lists and animations can combine with graphics and videos .

 

Internet homework assignments

The Internet has made it easy for students to post their assignments online via learning platforms like Moodle and Blackboard. Teachers can easily access these assignments to mark and student access means an increase in engagement levels.

 

Classroom tablets

Tablet computers are becoming more common in classrooms and this allows for teachers to differentiate instruction with technology. Students can work at their own pace.

 

 

Strategies of Implementation

It is not the technology itself that makes a difference, but the way in which it is used. In other words, it is teachers employing sound instructional practices. The issue is that many websites that claim to have strategies are just really ideas. Strategies need to be evidence and research-based in order for it to have an impact on learning and enhance student understanding of contexts. They need to be able to be applied across the curriculum by all teachers in a way that will build on each child’s level of capability.

 

Here are a number of strategies that I talk about more in my ICT in Education Teacher Academy (60+ online PD courses):

 

• Classroom Management strategies when using technology in the classroom;
• Using formative assessment to develop ICT teaching strategies;
• Scaffolding technology in the classroom;
• Solving discontinuity;
• Grouping students when using technology in the classroom;
• Providing effective support

ICT in Education Teacher Academy

60+ Technology in the Classroom Professional Development