Does the use of technology in class benefit the educational process?

Introduction

Purpose of Computers in Education

Computers are one of the most valuable resources in a classroom because they serve so many useful functions. With computers and the internet, students today have a wealth of information at their fingertips that can help them develop their research and communication skills while preparing them for a future career in a workforce that is increasingly reliant on computer technology.

One of the most common applications of computers in education today involves the ongoing use of educational software and programs that facilitate personalized online instruction for students. Programs like iReady use computers to assess students in reading and math. Students then work on interactive reading and math lessons that are designed to target the specific academic needs identified during diagnostic testing. Educational software like this makes it easier to differentiate instruction so that lessons meet each student’s unique learning needs. These tools also provide a wealth of useful data and resources that teachers can use to work with their students in the classroom and maximize learning. Online assessments are more efficient than traditional paper testing because it allows for more immediate feedback and data.

Benefits of Computers in the Classroom

The benefits of using computers in the classroom goes beyond more efficient assessment and opportunities for online learning

Ø  Using computers in the classroom gives teachers an opportunity to teach digital citizenship skills that demonstrate ways to use technology correctly and responsibly.

Ø  Computers also help maximize student engagement. Modern students are regularly exposed to technology outside of the classroom. Most use and enjoy smartphones and other mobile devices, which is why they are more likely to engage in the learning process if it involves something to which they are already accustomed and enjoy.

Ø  Teachers use computers to record grades, calculate averages, manage attendance and access data on student performance in online programs and assessments

Ø   Computers have also made it easier for teachers to vary their instructional delivery. Instead of lecturing at the front of the room for an entire class period

Ø  Teachers can incorporate technology into their lessons to keep students engaged while appealing to a variety of learning styles. From using computers to create presentations on a topic to showing video clips that complement the lesson at hand, technology helps teachers make the content easier for students to understand.

Ø  Using technology in the classroom allows  to experiment more in pedagogy and get instant feedback. Technology allows for more active learning; you can increase engagement through online polling or asking quiz questions during lectures (with instantaneous results).

Ø  Technology in the classroom helps ensure full participation.Online polling and other digital tools help to engage all students, including shy students who wouldn’t normally raise their hand in class. Online engagement systems allow you to regularly check in with students for feedback on course materials and assignments; data analytics could be used to help spot areas where students might be struggling,

Ø  There are countless resources for enhancing education and making learning more fun and effective. Digital storytelling through gamification can make learning more exciting and sometimes relatable for students. Gamification allows for interactive lessons and can reduce passivity in the classroom.

Ø  With technology in the classroom, your students have instant access to fresh information that can supplement their learning experience.There is value in having textbooks and course materials that are always up to date, which can even include additions suggested by students. This also fosters a more collaborative learning environment; students, networked together online, can share information, work together on group projects, and interact with the instructor.

Ø  We live in a digital world, and technology is a life skill. Being digitally literate is more than obtaining “isolated technological skills,” according to the NMC Horizon Report: 2017 Higher Education Edition. Rather, it’s about “generating a deeper understanding of the digital environment, enabling intuitive adaptation to new contexts and co-creation of content with others.”

Conclusions

 Computer and its related technology have completely revolutionized our lives. Now, information technology is important in every walk in life. Undoubtedly, computer and information technology great impact in our education system. Various technologies have been used to improve the teaching and learning process. Information technology makes our education system interested and effective. Students can learn better without getting bored and frustrated. This paper presents the current scenario of information technology based education system.