5 Reasons Why Students Need Technology in the Classroom

 

Introduction

The modern learning environment is more dynamic than ever before. As a result, today’s students learn in ways that are very different from how our educational system was originally designed. With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the rise of remote/hybrid learning, the idea of the classroom is being remodeled and redefined in a number of ways to fit the evolving needs of modern digital learners.

Many Higher Education Institutions are substituting traditional resources with educational technologies to keep up with their digital learning population. Below, we’ve listed why adopting a learning strategy that embraces technology in the classroom environment can improve engagement and increase student success rates.  

1. Enhanced Access to Information and Resources

Technology provides students with instant access to a vast amount of information and resources. The internet and digital tools allow students to explore various subjects, conduct research, and access educational materials that may not be available in traditional textbooks. Here are some concrete examples of how students can use technology to enhance their learning:  

• Digital Libraries: Digital libraries or online databases allow students to access various academic and research materials, including e-books, scholarly articles, journals, and multimedia content that can support their learning.
• Online Platforms: Educational platforms and learning management systems (LMS) provide a centralized location for teachers to share resources and for students to access information. These platforms can host digital textbooks, multimedia content, interactive modules, and assignments.
• Open Educational Resources (OER): OER refers to freely available educational materials accessed online. Instructors can utilize OER platforms to find textbooks, lesson plans, videos, and other resources that align with the curriculum and provide students with additional information sources.

2. Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Real World

Technology allows educators to remove the physical barriers of the classroom, offering students a way to connect the curriculum with the real world. For instance, a geology professor can take her students on a virtual tour of the Grand Canyon National Park, while a history teacher can walk his students through the corridors and history of the White House.  

Moreover, technology facilitates virtual guest speaker sessions, allowing students to connect with experts and professionals from different fields through video conferencing. This expands their access to information and real-world perspectives.

3. Preparing Students for the Modern Workplace

To thrive in the 21st-century workplace, students need more than a working knowledge of current technological tools. They must gain exposure to the tools and skills they will likely encounter in the modern workplace. By integrating these technologies into the regular curriculum and ongoing activities, institutions ensure that their students are workforce ready in more ways than one.

• Digital Literacy: Digital literacy skills are in high demand in the workplace. By integrating technology in the classroom, students learn to navigate digital platforms, use productivity tools, collaborate online, and effectively communicate using digital mediums.
• Information Management: Technology enables students to access, organize, and analyze large amounts of data. Employees often need to gather data and conduct research to make informed decisions. Classroom technology familiarizes students with information management tools and techniques, preparing them for these tasks.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: Technology integration exposes students to various digital tools and platforms. This experience helps students become adaptable and flexible in using different technologies, as workplaces often require employees to learn and adapt to new technologies and software.
• Creativity and Innovation: Students can use technology to create multimedia presentations, design projects, develop prototypes, and express their ideas innovatively. These skills are highly valued in many industries where creative problem-solving and innovative thinking are essential.

4. Fostering Global Awareness and Cultural Exchange

Technology allows students to connect with peers and experts from around the world. Through video conferencing, online collaborations, and virtual exchange programs, students can gain global awareness, learn about different cultures, and develop a broader perspective on various issues.

5. Supporting Diverse Learning Styles

No two students learn the same way. Technology can help address diversity in learning styles and experiences. 

Conclusion

Effective instructors leverage technology to enhance their instruction and engage students. However, it’s essential to ensure that students are guided on effectively searching for information, critically evaluating sources, and using technology responsibly. Instructors play a crucial role in helping students navigate the digital landscape and develop information literacy skills. By integrating technology into the classroom, educators can create a more engaging, relevant, and effective learning environment that prepares students for success in the 21st century.