Technological Teachers

"Though the technology is relatively new, preliminary studies at Harvard and Ohio State, among other institutions, suggest that engaging students in class through a device as familiar to them as a cellphone — there are even applications that convert iPads and BlackBerrys into class-ready clickers — increases their understanding of material that may otherwise be conveyed in traditional lectures." - Jacques Steinberg

Teenagers in this generation are more reliant on technology than any other generation that's preceded us. Cellphones are constantly glued into the hands of teenagers, regardless of where they are and who they're with. It's become impossible for the school day to pass without a teacher or administrator reminding students to put their phones away.

However, there is technology being used in classrooms every day. Computers, SmartBoards, and other devices have been introduced to the learning process pretty recently. These tools can provide quick access to helpful resources, such as internet websites, that can better describe a topic. For example, in a math class, a teacher can use a SmartBoard to generate graphs and graphing calculators, as well as being able to open internet sources such as JMAP or regentsprep.org. These devices can also engage the students moreso than a chalkboard because it relates to students more.

Technology can be distracting in the classrooms, though. If the teacher is not properly educated in how to use the devices, than the device can start to control the class instead of being a helpful tool. Thus, teachers should thoroughly learn the technology that they use in the classroom so that they can be successful educators.