Brad Bawtinheimer discusses how technology can be used in the modern day classroom. Brad is an International speaker and senior academic consultant for Cambridge University Press in Mexico. His specialties include technology and the utilization of 21st century skills. In addition to this, he is also the co-author of several text books for primary, secondary and young adults.
Using technology in the classroom can be a daunting idea for some and a walk in the park for others. Regardless, there are some days that you need the force on your side. This is the first of a five-part series in which I dispel some common misconceptions and share some easy ideas to use in your lessons. Firstly, are we using technology because we THINK students want it or is an objective being fulfilled? One might believe that technology is the only way to engage students in a modern society, but what may seem new and shiny to you may very well be old and boring to your students.
Digital Natives?
A common justification against using technology are the overused terms “Digital Natives” and “Digital Immigrants”. Mark Prensky introduced the term digital natives in 2001. This was quite relevant at the time. I had barely jumped on board with the use of email. Personally, my use of a beeper in high school was as tech savvy as I got. Jump forward to the current year and this term could not be farther from the truth. I am addicted to every innovation and new gadget that comes along. Some of my students are also tech addicts, but I know many that couldn’t care less. For those of us that grew up without the internet (Gasp!), we have had years to get used to using devices in every part of our lives and now carry a mini computer in our pockets. I would be lost without it.
Are your students from some futuristic sci-fi movie?
Why is this relevant? Does the thought of infusing technology in your lessons bring about a sudden sense of anxiety, because you think your students are from some futuristic sci-fi movie? You might be pleasantly surprised. Not all teenagers are experts and not all mature teachers are unknowledgeable. A European study in 2011 noted that only 36% of 9-16 year olds believed with confidence that they knew more about the internet than their parents. It is our job to guide them on how to maneuver the world wide web and the safest and most productive uses.
PowerPoints alone are not engaging
Using technology can have great benefits, but remember that we are the ones that will ultimately make the class engaging and relevant. Anyone can show a PowerPoint, but not everyone can turn the present perfect into a fun and engaging lesson.
Over the next parts of this series, we will examine the SAMR model by Dr. Ruben Puentedura. Using this model, we will bring a new feeling to old activities and use creativity to think of ideas you never thought possible.
What’s your opinion on using technology in the classroom? Does it make a difference? Leave your comments below.
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