Technology has
recently been seen as the savior of education (Collins & Haverson,
2009). There are several changes and
challenges that come along with the increase in implementation of
technology. Technology is now “a major
component of our educational system” (Kemp et al., 2014 p. 1). Some individuals completely support the
integration of technology into education and others are weary. Some of the popular debated topics regarding
technology in education include differing terms, levels of implementation, and
beliefs about education (Duebel, 2007).
One of the main
challenges that arises with an increase in technology implementation is
access. Many students and people of low
socioeconomic status have less access to technology at home and in school. This means that implementing technology can “alienate
those who cannot participate” (Duebel et al., 2009, p. 17). The internet and personal computers are seen
as something that could increase the benefits of education but this is only
possible when technology is available for all students including those of
low-income status. This is a problem
that is far from being solved and creates the argument that “technology should not
be an essential tool for receiving a quality education. Instead, it should be viewed as an option to
enhance learning and increase opportunities” (Duebel et al., 2009, p. 17). This is what many educators are currently
doing, using available technology to increase students learning opportunities,
not forcing the use of technology as a prerequisite for a class. At least at the elementary and secondary
level. In higher education, many students
are required to have access to home computers and technology in order to
complete coursework and participate in the class. This is an issue that still needs to be
solved.
Another
challenge to the integration of technology is that students are assumed to be
computer literate. This is far from
true, there are many students who have not yet had access with a computer,
tablet, or the internet and are therefore unaware of the dangers of using them,
the basic know how of using them, and other useful information (Fedynich, 2013). Many students are not adequately prepared for
a technology-rich environment (Ratliff, 2009).
Although
there are some challenges presented by incorporating technology into the
classroom, ultimately it provides students with an engaging and enriching
addition to their day.
References
Collins,
A. & Halverson, R. (2009). Rethinking
education in the age of technology: The digital revolution and schooling in America. New York, NY: Teachers College Press.
Duebel,
P. (2007). The great debate: Effectiveness of technology
in education. THE Journal. Retrieved from https://thejournal.com/articles/2007/11/08/the-great-debate-effectiveness-of-technology-in-education.aspx
Fedynich,
L.V. Teaching beyond the classroom walls:
The pros and cons of cyber learning. Journal of Instructional Pedagogies, 13(1),
1-7.
Kemp,
A.T., Preston, J., Page, CS.., Harper, R., Dillard, B., Flynn, J., Yamaguchi,
M. (2014). Technology and teaching: A conversation among
faculty regarding the pros and cons of technology. Qualitative
Report, 19(6), 1-23.
Ratliff,
V. (2009). Are college students prepared for a
technology-rich learning environment? MERLOT Journal of Online Learning and
Teaching, 5(4), 1-5.
