Implementing educational technology into your teaching methods is no longer recommendation; it’s a necessity. These trends impose a huge risk: many educators don’t have the needed skills and experience to introduce different tools successfully into the classroom. Thus, they end up choosing random online resources just to meet the requirements of their schools. As a result, the students are more confused and less motivated than ever.
You shouldn’t be focused solely on the right selection of educational tools. The way you implement them into your teaching practice is even more important.
Problems with Technology Tools in Classrooms
An EdTech tool is not a magical solution to all challenges you face as a teacher. Yes, a good strategy will help you motivate your students to learn more, but these tools do not exclude the need for personal contact with your students.
According to Assignmentmasters.co.uk, well-known expert in assignment help and education tech tools, the biggest problem with the implementation of technology in the classroom is the lack of a universal tool that works for everyone. It’s true that most students are visual learners, so you’ll boost their memory by showing infographics, videos, and cool presentations. Guess what: some students still enjoy textbooks. Can you identify pupils who perform better when you present a lecture in a traditional way and tell them to study from the textbook?
This simple example reveals the complexity of a teacher’s job: you have to combine different methods in order to adapt the materials to the capacity and tendencies of each individual in the classroom. You notice that some of your students don’t take part in discussions and team projects, but you are sure they have more to offer? Don’t force them to use interactive tools and present their projects in front of the class.
When it’s their turn to show the work, turn the presentation into a relaxed conversation. If they choke, you should realize that the modern approach to education is not their thing, so allow them to show what they know through tests, quizzes, homework, and other traditional means of evaluation.
How to Implement Technologies into the Classroom
When you identify the problems, it’s time to think about the way you introduce EdTech tools in the class. You cannot just show up with a tablet and tell everyone that the interaction will now be based on technology. This should be a subtle process that won’t shock your students.
Are you waiting for your school to send you to a training course? You are only paid to do your job, and you can do that perfectly when you rely on the coursework and textbooks, right? Wrong! The point of being a teacher is not to spend a day at work just to get to the paycheck; it’s all about inspiring your students and making them smarter, better, and motivated to learn.
There are tons of online resources that inform you about the trends in the EdTech industry. You can also become part of forums and share your experience with other educators. Professional development does not occur in a day; it’s an ongoing process that’s intentional and requires daily efforts.
Technology is not everyone’s cup of tea. Some students have a hard time maneuvering with different devices and tools. Don’t make them feel inferior. You should offer practical support and make them feel comfortable in the revolutionized classroom environment. Team them up with students who don’t have a problem using these tools and offer your own instructions.
Give detailed presentations and explanations about a certain tool before expecting your students to use it!
Teachers hold a lot of responsibility for the development of our society. They have the honor to educate the future generation and shape their vision for a better world. Most educators are focused on teaching their students how to become responsible citizens of their countries, but neglect the equally important aspect of digital citizenship – using information technology for engagement in society, politics, and all other areas of life.
When your students realize the importance of responsible technology usage, they will start showing more enthusiasm about the tools you introduce into the classroom.
Technology Is Here to Stay!
It’s not a question of preference: you have a duty to make your students capable of using technology for educational purposes. Take small steps, and you’ll eventually adapt the classroom environment for successful use of technology.