Blog #2: Technology, Educators, and Learners

Photo by Andy Kelly on Unsplash

What influences teachers and students to use technology in the classroom?

Through nonstop advancements in technology, humanity has been thrust into a digital era. Who would have thought that people could reach their loved ones within seconds when, in the past, it would have taken them months? Indeed, with each passing day, humans continue to innovate. In order to keep up with the progressing technological world, one must learn to adapt or else, he will risk stagnation in the shadows of the past. Despite this technological era, we must remember that technology was not created to replace us, but to help us do things efficiently.

In school, teachers and students are influenced by various factors when it comes to using technology in the classroom. These influences range from curriculum alignment to the recognition of pedagogical benefits and student needs. A teacher must be knowledgeable about technology, as school curricula require resources and reports to be accessed and completed online. Educators must not be left behind as schools transition to hybrid learning set-ups. Moreover, teachers should remember that technology can be used to guide students toward autonomy. However, proper usage of technology must be implemented so that it will not hinder student learning.

What does it mean to be a digital native? Have you seen differences between how you (digital native) and most of your teachers (digital immigrants) use technology? If so, describe them and what their impact has been on your learning experience. What differences do you anticipate between you and your future students in terms of how you use technology?

In the era of ongoing technological advancements, the term 'digital native' has emerged to describe individuals who have grown up in environments saturated with technology. These individuals are known for their adeptness at utilizing gadgets, online resources, and various forms of technology. While it's commonly applied to today's youth, I partially agree on this belief. It's no doubt that most youth are digital natives, having been raised in technology-rich environment. However, it's important to recognize that not all parts of the world have equal access to the digital realm or advanced technology. Therefore, we cannot claim that all youth are considered to be digital natives. Being a digital native doesn't automatically translate to excellence in all aspects of technology because proficiency can vary widely among individuals.

I had instructors before who were born in the 60s and 70s. It's fascinating to witness how their technological skills compare to those of digital natives. I am grateful for these people for learning something and blessing me with what they have learned. I've noticed that most digital immigrants tend to excel in the practical aspect of technology. They mostly use it for tasks such as teaching students, communication, and productivity. In comparison, many digital natives, including myself, often find themselves more inclined to venture into technology's entertainment and leisure aspects. While these observations hold true for many, it's crucial to remember that individual technological adeptness and interests can vary widely within each generation.

As a future educator, I would anticipate many differences between me and my student in terms of technology use. I am anticipating that my students will be more knowledgeable with the latest tech compared to me. Also, I think that they will have more technology available that they can access compared to my youth.