Technology has become a way of life for the 21st century learner. Secondary learners are inundated on a daily basis by smart phones, tablets, and social media. Technology has “completely changed the way we conduct our daily lives.” (Huneycutt, 2013) In knowing this, technology should be used in the classroom to facilitate secondary instruction. Classrooms that use technology allow the 21st century learner to be collaborative, motivated, engaged, and ready for the future.
Technology can provide meaningful learning through collaboration. Collaboration is important for the 21st century learner because they need to know how to work with others. Video-conferences, working in groups, and blogging are just a couple of ways to facilitate learning within the classrooms. Technology makes us more connected than ever before. A student in China can work on a project with a student in Canada without leaving their house or school. Students working in groups within the classroom allow for collaboration among peers. Blogging allows for collaboration among a wider set of audience. Collaboration is important for all students.
Technology can also provide motivation for the students. The teacher can have students target specific goals while searching the internet or have students create games that allow the students to have more ownership. (Miller, 2012) The students can also be motivated and engaged by looking at videos that support the lesson being taught. Another way to motivate and engage learning in this way is to let the students take risk within the classroom using technology. Let them choose from a list of topics what they would like to research or let them choose how they will research the topic. “It's crucial for students to see that the work they do in the online space drives the work they do in the classroom…” (Tucker, 2013) By making learning fun and relevant, students will be motivated and engaged in the classroom.
Technology in the classroom will also prepare students for their future jobs. Technology is constantly changing. Just look at how often smart phones are being re-designed and becoming bigger (a.k.a. smaller/thinner) and better. Students need to know how to adapt to the changing needs of society through technology. For the students to be able to have a hands on experience throughout their high school classes will improve their chances of understanding technology. They will also have a better understanding of how to use technology when going to college. Technology will prepare the students for the future.
21st century students need a classroom that facilitates learning with technology. 21st century students need teachers that are willing to put in the time that is necessary to use the technology appropriately within the classroom. These students need to be put in situations that allow them to collaborate with other peers. They also need to be given motivation with technology that engages them to want to learn. Technology is the future and will only continue to become more integrated into society. Learners need technology to facilitate the classroom so they will be prepared for whatever the future holds for them.
Resources:
Huneycutt, T. (2013, October 8). National Math + Science Initiative. Retrieved September 1, 2014, from www.nms.org: http://www.nms.org/Blog/TabId/58/PostId/188/technology-in-the-classroom-the-benefits-of-blended-learning.aspx
Miller, A. (2012, October 12). edutopia. Retrieved September 1, 2014, from www.edutopia.org: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/blended-learning-engagement-strategies-andrew-miller
Tucker, C. R. (2013). The Basics of Blended Instruction. Technology-Rich Learning , 70 (6), 57-60.
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A further look at Technology Integration:
