Pedagogy before Technology
I can remember technology being one of the most important tools for me as a teacher. I used it every day in my instruction. I knew that it was going to immediately engage my students. Technology has altered how we access and absorb information, it has become an essetial part of our lives and also in education, which has been both a blessing and a challenge. This essay examines how students' attitudes toward technology are changing, how it is changing in the classroom, why librarians should embrace educational technology, and how instruction is affected by the shifting technological environment.
Technology is frequently viewed differently by students than it is by teachers and librarians. Many children see technology as a part of who they are instead of just a tool. They were brought up in an age when cellphones, tablets, and laptops are prevalent, so using digital gadgets in daily life comes naturally to them. Many students view technology as a part of who they are. They use it for educational purposes and for fun.
On the other hand, a lot of teachers and librarians prefer to see technology as an important instrument for improving access to information and learning. They see it as a means to stimulate critical thinking, enable research, and engage pupils. While students may sometimes see technology as a shortcut, educators emphasize its potential to deepen understanding and knowledge acquisition. This was true in my own classroom. I often used apps like Kahoot, various reading apps, and of course, Google Classroom. It was a vital part of my instruction.
The differing views of technology highlight the need to reframe its use in the classroom. Educators should acknowledge that technology is not just a tool for instruction but an integral part of students' lives. By leveraging technology in ways that align with students' interests and preferences, educators can bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and students' digital mindset. This can result in more effective and engaging learning experiences.
The question of whether technology is a learning tool or the basis on which we build learning is still up for argument. Even while it is unquestionably a strong instrument, technology should be seen as an essential component of today's education. Technology enables personalized training, collaborative learning, and access to an extensive amount of knowledge. However, how well it is incorporated into pedagogy will determine how effective it is.
Librarians play a crucial role in modern education by curating and providing access to digital resources. The promotion of information literacy and lifelong learning is in line with their objective; thus they should be concerned with integrating educational technology. While educating instructors and students how to examine online sources critically and utilize digital technologies for research and learning, librarians can help them in accessing the digital world responsibly and ethically.
The changing technological landscape is reshaping instruction in both classrooms and libraries. With the integration of technology, educators can create more interactive and dynamic lessons that cater to different learning styles. The updated Bloom's Taxonomy, incorporating technology-related verbs, provides a framework for designing instruction that aligns with 21st-century skills. This can only help educators. In the school I formerly taught in, this was made mandatory for lesson planning. Teachers were required to notate the Blooms verb that corresponded with the lesson. I imagine the Blooms technology verbs will soon be required as well. For me, it really forced me to think of the rigor of my lesson which helped tremendously with planning.
In conclusion, the use of technology in educational settings is nuanced and a developing subject. The necessity to modify teaching strategies to meet students where they are is reinforced by the possibility that students' perspectives on technology differ from those of teachers and librarians. In the digital age, technology acts as both a tool and a foundation for learning. To encourage information literacy, librarians should embrace educational technology, and the evolving technological environment. Teachers and librarians are able to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the twenty-first century by recognizing and utilizing the power of technology.
References
Common Sense Education. (2022, October 2). . - YouTube. Retrieved September 3, 2023, from https://www.commonsense.org/education/videos/blooms-digital-taxonomy
Digital Transformation in K-12 Education. (n.d.). K-12 Blueprint. Retrieved September 3, 2023, from https://www.k12blueprint.com/sites/default/files/SHI-K12BP-Digital-Transformation-in-K-12-Education.pdf
McBride, T. (2019, August 21). Marist News: The First Marist Mindset List is Released. Marist College. Retrieved September 3, 2023, from https://www.marist.edu/w/marist-news-the-first-marist-mindset-list-is-released
Schrock, K. (n.d.). Bloomin' Apps. Kathy Schrock's Guide to Everything. Retrieved September 3, 2023, from https://www.schrockguide.net/bloomin-apps.html
You are correct that the argument over whether technology is the conduit or supports the learning itself is far from over. I think if people looked at paper and pencil as "technology" it might help to reframe things. This was a great essay, thank you for your thoughtfulness!
ReplyDeleteI love Kahoot, and I also use Google Classroom frequently. I've worked at schools that required noting Blooms levels in lesson planning, and I've worked at other schools that did not require it, nor even mentioned it. Personally, I think that requiring it is better than not. Thank you for your great post!
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