Today’s children are growing up in a society that is infused with technology. Since children have grown up with different digital landscapes than their teachers, they are more likely to be inspired and motivated by different technology. For some students, their interest and passion lies within the realms of technology. These students speak a different language than their teachers do and understand technology more so than their teachers may. According to the research, digital teaching tools are better for a student’s memory and through the use of technology such as SMARTboards, digital “clickers” and computers, students interest increases and the motivation for students to perform at his or her highest level increases as well. Online tools such as videos, audio podcasts, and web pages, are more effective strategies than traditional methods. Since students respond positively to technology and their motivation is increased through the use of technology, teachers should make a conscious effort to create activities that include some form of technological tools. These students will be more likely to perform at their highest levels and their achievement and self-efficacy increases through the incorporation of technology.
Some great examples of technological tools are VoiceThread and Digital Storytelling. VoiceThread allows users to create digital slideshows with captivating images sand Digital Storytelling allows students to become personally involved with the story as they actively participate in creating their own stories which is very exciting and engaging for the students. By telling stories orally, students develop their listening skills and planning skills, and it helps students create academic content in their own language. In my practicum class, the teachers use technology sporadically but always with a purpose. Technology is brought in through short video clips to introduce a topic, goNoodle or YouTube videos used for brain breaks and weekly use of computers for math or to research a particular topic.
Some students are not good with technology and do not enjoy it. It’s important to give students a choice on how they would like to present their projects because students will chose an avenue that best suits their educational needs. Many students in the 21st century gravitate towards technology because their perception is that it’s “fun and easy”. Technology is definitely very engaging and motivating for students. The research concludes that technology has the potential to be a powerful educational tool.
I know for myself, I am not very technologically advanced. I lack basic understanding of simple programs and lack the knowledge of how to incorporate technology into my lessons in an effective way. Yes, I could include technology into every one of my lessons just for the sake of doing so; however, the technology is just being presented without actually strengthening my lesson. As an educator, I don’t want to just bring technology into my lessons because I feel like it’s the upcoming and right thing to do in order to stay relevant within the 21st century. I want to use technology in a way that engages my students and enhances their learning experience. I would love to see my students become more motivated because of the introduction of technology into the classroom. I can see how some teachers may be afraid to use technology in the classroom because they feel like they don’t have the skills to use it effectively, however, I believe it’s very beneficial to students and should be used regularly. Not only is student motivation and engagement increasing but also academic performance which shows the positive effect of technology use on student behaviour.
Granito, M & Chernobilsky, E. (2012). The effect of technology on student’s motivation and knowledge retention. NERA Conference Proceedings, Paper 17.