Beefing up technology in the classroom doesn’t always lead to better education

Studies have found that the internet and overexposure to computers make education outcomes to decrease. Spicing things up in the classroom with technology might not lead to improved education in kids. A recent report followed the educational outcome of students based on how often they use technology at school and at home. Whereas student performance enhances when technology is used in moderation, the report additionally found that overexposure to the internet and computers might decrease their level of educational outcome.

Education

Technology in the classroom – pros & cons

Even though educational institutions across the country have invested a fortune in internet connectivity, computers and educational software for student, some specialists argue that there’s no clear proof that using computers to study leads to improved scoring in reading or math. Apparently, universities haven’t managed to make the most advanced technology in the classroom; and rather than keep students engaged, technology is a distraction.

In 2012, an international study did on 40 countries across the globe survey students on their computer whereabouts. The results claimed that only 7 in 10 students make use of computers in the classroom. Students in countries such as Mexico and Turkey spend around 25 minutes/day on a computer, and that was because they didn’t own a computer at home. The study in question emphasize that students with access to smart devices do better in school, as opposed to those without access. However, rushed decisions mustn’t be taken on the matter because the data only reflects that education systems that choose to invest in technology are also fond of investing in teachers; all this draws in students that come from an increased socio-economic class who are natural-born learners.

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Computers – a good thing or a bad thing for the education system?

Countries with low income per capita and low budgets for education have a decreased number of computers per student. Even though access to smart technology leads to better performance in class, the way computers are used and how much time has been spent on a computer has a fundamental effect on performance too. Those that use advanced technology to study better in the classroom perform better too, because digital writing and reading boost overall knowledge. Students who spend less time in front of a PC or tablet don’t perform that well; their general knowledge is limited.

Technology has the ability to amplify good teaching. However it can’t be a replacement for poor teaching. Students fond of using computers for copy/pasting test to write an essay are better off doing something else; those that use is to perform a thorough research and then apply the information in a different manner in school can reap better benefits.

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The education system is not ready to unleash the great potential of advanced technology

The overall education system is not capable of leveraging the potential of advanced technology. Given than technology often boosts the efficacy of processes that are already efficient, it may additionally foster inefficiency because without sound support it can’t be of much help to students. Classrooms need a plan otherwise they won’t be able to help students use technology the right way. When students receive a tool but they’re not shown how to make use of it, they won’t be able to make the most of its uses.

Then there’s the distraction dilemma. In developed countries advanced technology has gone mainstream. Students use iPads, ebooks, laptops and smartphones on a daily basis; even the schools are high-tech, and many put at the disposal of the student all kinds of smart devices. But how many students use technology to learn? Many use it for the mere purpose of accessing social media, watching movies, and playing games. All these distractions are severely impacting their learning potential.

Technology in the classroom can be a good thing though. However, it must be properly implemented for it to render results. Students must be taught and encouraged to use computers to look for useful information; they need to feel engaged by the coursework too, as this will help keep them away from social media at school. With proper guidance technology in class can work, although it’s up to both professors and students to strive and attain the best results.

By Paul Trevino and Educater.co.uk!