Written By Sierra S

Technology is present! It is everywhere and continues to evolve. With each generation of kids, they grow up in the age of technology. As a college student myself I grew up with cell phones and laptops becoming the norm quickly. Teachers in my classrooms hated technology use of any kind and would often prohibit students from taking notes that were not using pen and paper. As the years go on, students start using technology earlier and understand it faster than ever before. There are many benefits to using technology in the classroom, it can really enhance a student’s learning experience. Here are three small ways to use technology in classes.

Trying to motivate students to learn can be very difficult, especially when students just are not understanding the lesson. Math can actually be very fun when you genuinely understand. Playing educational games in classes can be very beneficial. Research says using games in teaching can help increase student participation, foster social and emotional learning, and motivate students to take risks. Students play online games all the time. Using educational games or even just using common games that students play on a daily basis can change the way they think or understand a topic. It has its benefits and already incorporates things students do now all the time anyway. 

A second way would be having students create their own digital content as assignments, projects, or group work. Creative assignments allow students to express themselves and understand concepts in a different way is beneficial to their learning. Using technology alongside non-digital lessons can have many academic and behavioral benefits for your students, including:

• Longer attention span
• Increased intrinsic motivation to learn
• Higher classroom participation and student engagement
• Greater academic achievement
• Stronger digital literacy

Teachers can have students write blog posts, edit short movies, create tiktoks, etc and really help bring out their creativity. Not only is it a wonderful way to incorporate hands-on learning but it also helps boost class morale.

A third and final way I would incorporate technology into the classroom is using a digital calendar/schedule. A digital calendar, used as a classroom hub filled with due dates, quizzes, guest speakers, or lessons. For all students, other teachers, and parents to access. It helps parents feel like they are in the classroom. Helps teachers see what their colleagues are doing and maybe can plan classes around similar lessons. Also helps students with time management and learning early on the importance of a schedule and all of its benefits. 

Technology use in classrooms changes the way learning is viewed. It helps in so many ways if used correctly and can help accommodate all different types of students. It keeps school interesting and brings so many alternative ways of learning. Try thinking of ways to slowly incorporate technology into your own classroom!

Edited by Ryan R

Sources:

How to Use Gameplay to Enhance Classroom Learning | Edutopia

Technology and Digital Media in the Classroom: A Guide for Educators – Waterford.org