Monday, September 3, 2007

Week Two Assignment

The question I was assigned is "My understanding on educational technology and its relationship with teaching and learning process."

    In a nutshell I would propose that educational technology is yet another tool in the teacher's toolbox. In order for the educator to use this tool, they must first understand the method for which the student best learns new material. So, you must be aware of the various theories on how humans learn. Once you have a grasp of the leading theorists, the teacher can then analyze the student's style for learning. As this chapter reveals, a view of the unique learning method or methods is required prior to assigning a method for presenting the lesson. We must remember that students are our customers and what works for one will not necessarily work for another.

    History has proven that no magic introduction of technology will solve education challenges. The invention of radio and film did not replace the human touch of a teacher as predicted by Thomas Edison. Presently we can not assume that throwing computers, software, and interactive learning boards will solve today's challenge in the classroom. However, understanding the learning processes of our student's and applying appropriate technology in the classroom will produce significant educational gains.

2 comments:

Sonja Rayner said...

I never would have thought about our studnets being like customers. Being in business, this is something that I can compare to. I agee with you that technology should not replace the teacher. I believe human interaction will have to always be present for students to learn. I also agree with you on not using all technology because it is available. Some technology may not work for the group of students that you have at the present moment.

Good job Richard!

deltadiva said...

That is a great concept thinking of our students as customers.

Good one.
Tawana