Technology is everywhere in today’s world. Cell phones, MP3 players, Ipods, and the Internet are the norm. Education is no exception. Most schools are now equipped with computer labs. Technology has now made its way into the academic curriculum. Along with math, English, science, social studies, and reading, teachers are now teaching technology skills.
Many children are well capable of navigating through computer games when they begin school. Others use the Internet on a daily basis. Students have email addresses and computers at home. However, there is more to technology than surfing the web. Children need to know how to appropriately use computers for educational purposes. Many colleges and professions are now requiring their members to create PowerPoint presentations and spreadsheets. Students need to know how to create Word documents and how to efficiently locate material online.
The new generation is very willing and eager to learn to work with technology. However, many teachers were not raised in today’s society. They did not grow up talking on cell phones or ordering online. Therefore, many teachers are learning along with their students. It is essential that teachers be given training in the area of technology. Previous college education courses did not teach how to use PowerPoint demonstrations or create newsletters with a Printshop program. A lot of veteran teachers are in need of technology instruction.
My county recently began a new program for creating lesson plans. Our lesson plans are created online. Many veteran teachers were opposed to the new style. They were accustomed to writing out their plans each week in a plan book. They did not know the benefits of accessing plans from a computer or using cut and paste when mistakes were made. Each day our world is becoming more and more advanced. Some advances are not necessarily better but they are happening. It is very important for educators to have an open mind and be willing to learn and adjust their way of teaching.
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