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Whether used to get things done or as a way to entertain ourselves, these days, technology is accessible practically everywhere and is practically used by everyone, everyday. When put into the hands of kids, a lot of the times it is used for more fun things than work. Not going to deny it, it is pretty easy to get distracted, everyone has been guilty of it. What is known to cause distractions for kids in school has taken a turn in being integrated as an additional way of learning in the classroom, accessible as early as elementary. Technology has evolved learning in classroom and has been a game changer; paper tests turned into tests taken online, homework can be accessed online, hand written essays evolved to typing and submitting it online, researching online is preferred rather than books, even online classes. The only thing that remains are the teachers, if we can get information on computers already, then why not replace them altogether as well?
I think replacing teachers entirely isn't the best way. We humans are emotional creatures, and that is something computers can't sense and don't understand, unlike teachers. Like a computer, they are a source of knowledge for the students but, as much as it may be taken for granted, they can see more than just your grades. They can provide the extra support when students struggle to learn on their own.
Does the use of computers eliminate chances for human error and prove to be more efficient? Is using technology only a way to find answers rather than actually learning? I hope to find some answers though researching detailed articles and debates on the different perspectives, and especially involving the opinions of teachers and students. In addition, I am also going to look into studies of student success rates in online learning and in the classroom.
This will definitely be an issue in the future in some way. The advancement of technology has altered so much of human civilization, it is definitely possible that computers could become the primary form of teaching. We use them extensively already in academia, and we are currently participating in an online course for our own education. I agree with your observations on humans being emotional creatures, and the inability of machines to "feel" in the human fashion yet. I am of the opinion, that no matter how advanced the technology, there should be a human element involved in education and development of young minds.
ReplyDeleteI find this an interesting topic, for many different reasons. To start I almost have to laugh, because I for one am having the hardest time with this class for the simplest fact that it's all online and I'm just not computer savvy. I work so much better in person, and I think it's easier to look at someone and have them say this is how you do it or this is when this is due. I also find it easier in my own personal experience to stay after and say "I don't understand this could you explain this better, or do you have a suggestion on where I could look to understand this more," rather than email to ask a teacher the same question. Now, If you take that teacher out of the equation all together where would that same student go with those questions or concerns that their having? Where would the helpful backup, for lack of a better term, come into play? Now I understand that you might be referring to the education that comes later on, like collage or even some High School classes, but when would the board of directors say "NO MORE!" Lets be honest, with budget cuts, over crowding, and over worked teachers, if started where would it stop?
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