Great potential exists when technology becomes part of the classroom. But its mere presence does not guarantee effective learning. The use of technology – whether it’s in the form of digital pictures and videos, or posting on a blog, should not be seen as an accessory to learning; it should support, enhance and enrich learning.
Technology can be used in the following ways:
- To bring exciting curricula based on real-world problems into the classroom.
- Provide scaffolds and tools to enhance learning.
- Give students and teachers more opportunities for feedback, reflection and revision.
- Build local and global communities that include teachers, administrators, students, parents, practicing scientists, and other interested people.
Technology is most effective when it enables us to do new things in different ways. As Dr. Michele Jacobsen explains in the following video, we don’t want to leave young children out when it comes to knowing how to use technology, and use it properly.
Just as adults allocate their time and responsibilities, children should also be helped to do the same when it comes to technology. In the following video, Dr. Michele Jacobsen says putting artificial limits on technology use doesn’t promote independence, or the decision-making abilities necessary to live in our digital world.
Creating Videos in the Classroom
The videos below illustrate how technology is used to leverage the learning of young children as well as document their learning achievements. The students become active participants in their own learning, whether they’re dressing up and describing the life of early Acadians, learning about the importance of clean water, or telling their own story about a mysterious box of juice.
