TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION

The challenging process of educating is in demanding need for solutions on how technology will change education. Society seems to be fascinated by the eruption of technological advancements in the educational field. In 1981 about eighteen percent of U.S. public schools had one computer for instructional use. By 1991 that percentage increased to ninety-eight percent (Alhalabi p.22). Technology has changed and will change many ideas of education the potential of educational systems captivates the lives of many students and teachers. The effects of technology in the classroom are related to both the teacher and the students. In the past classrooms were lecture driven. With technology involved in education, the students are more active in their learning. The teacher is no longer the center of attention. They play the role of a facilitator or guide of information and not so much of an information source. Technology in the classroom allows the students to be more active with the opportunity of communication of information. By being active the students are then more likely to generate their own choices on how to obtain, manipulate, or display information (Bridgforth). This gives students a higher confidence level. Teachers reported students had an increase in motivation when using technology. Because of their willingness to work with technology as opposed to a normal classroom setting of boring lecture, helps motivate students to learn. "Technology is the ultimate carrot for students. It's something they want to master. Learning to use it enhances their self-esteem and makes them excited about coming to school," stated a fifth grade teacher (Cradler p. 5). Technologies also give an opportunity for students and teachers to learn from a broader perspective of learning other skills. Instead of having the social norm of "lecture, notes" type of classes, students get to be active in learning with such a broad area of study. Teachers observed that students were able to handle more complex assignments (Bridgeforth). Students could do more because of the capabilities that technology provides. Now that students are interested and motivated to learn, students are more likely to share their ideas with peers, and take pride in knowing and sharing information.  

http://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/68187.html