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Open Categories Menu Negative Effects of Using Technology in Today’s Classroom
- 14 June, 2010 -
- Articles, Information Technology -
- Tags : classroom, effect, negative, Teacher, technology
- 5 Comments
Classroom teachers are using technology in the classroom more frequently than ever before. According to the National School Boards Association, students who are exposed to a high volume of technology perform as well as expected on standardized test, however technology can potentially do students a disservice if used inappropriately.
When teaching using technology, instructors must be aware of the potential hindrances technology can bring to the learning process. Some negative effects of technology in today’s classroom are that it can take away valuable learning time, it can be overused, and it can also turn educational experiences into games for students.
Takes Away Learning Time
In today’s classroom, teachers are pressed to make every minute count. If the teacher and students are not experienced with technology in the classroom, valuable time is often wasted on technical troubles. In addition, the teacher faces the difficulty of having a class full of students who are all at different skill levels. In many schools, most students will have a computer and Internet access, but schools that are located in impoverished areas may have a large portion of their student body with little to no computer experience. While it is important to educate these children in technology, it must be done at a pace that meets every individual’s needs or more learning time will be wasted.
Overuse
In some classrooms technology is overused. This can lead to a variety of problems. Many students learn best by physically and mentally interacting with what they are studying. If most of the teaching is done using a computer, these students’ needs are not being met. Technology should be used to supplement the classroom curriculum, but should not be used as the sole source of learning.
Game Mentality
One problem that many classroom teachers face is that students often use computers primarily for games. Because of this, many students associate computers and technology with game playing. Though some teachers can use this to their advantage, if this issue is not addressed, some students may get distracted and off task quickly.
Wow you came up with three reasons! Now you should go to the library or search online journals and read the millions of reasons why it is BENEFICIAL. Or can’t you download a pier reviewed scholarly source with your rock and chisel?
Dan – First, it is intellectually dishonest to personally attack an author rather than address the concerns raised. To do so simply strengthens the argument that those who overuse computers are incapable of intellectual discourse. Second, it’s a good idea to refrain from criticizing authors when you cannot spell the word “peer.” Perhaps you need a computer to help you spell simple words – maybe there’s an “app” for that.
Haha, good one Kim. And I hate using technology in the classroom! It takes away the personal aspect in the class. Also, being on the computer for a long time gives me a headache. There’s definitely an overuse of technology in school, and it really is a hassle. It complicates things.
Kim: haha, good one :D.
Though as Christina said i neither am a very big fan but recently I had to change my point of view as i saw/noticed some major advantages while attending my Masters classes but then again everyone has its own point of view so we really can’t say anything to anyone :)
As a new high-school graduate I did begin to notice more and more technological advances during the end of my educational career. It did begin to become over-used and started to destract me from my studies. Class became more of “who could set the high score” rather than furthering my education. Im not saying technology in class in wrong but, less is better than none.