Personal Philosophy of Technology in Education

 

Personal Philosophy of Technology in Education

Elizabeth Rader

EDUC 630 – B02

Dr. Amanda Roberts

 

  Generally, the term technology would imply the use of computers or a similar device.  However, technology is not something that is new to education and limited to the use of a modern device (Roblyer & Hughes, 2019, p. 2).  Technology is a tool that is used to make life simpler.  Merriam-Webster defines technology as “the practical application of knowledge” (n.d.).  Everywhere we look, technology is in use.  The alphabet is even referred to as a type of communication technology (Wisnewski, 2020, para. 19). 

Throughout history educators have worked to prepared students to enter the workforce.  As technology evolved in society and became more prominent, educators found it useful to implement more technology into the classroom as a way to meet the needs of the students.  Both technology and education have changed through the years and are continuing to change.  Effective teachers are moving to a more student-centered approach.  Since students do not all learn the same way, educators are working hard to meet their needs through differentiation.  Technology has proven beneficial in assisting teachers to meet the individual needs.

Educators have a professional responsibility to do what is best for their students and to work to meet each of the student’s educational needs.  According to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), teachers need to continue to improve their practices as research reveals improved strategies for better student learning outcomes (2021).  Educators must continue to strive to understand technology and look for ways that it could be beneficial in the classroom. 

Keeping current with technology is not an easy task as technology is constantly changing and improving.  There needs to be a balance between utilizing the latest technology versus implementing proven successful methods of instruction.  Technology should not be implemented into a classroom because it is new.  Instead it should serve as means to improve student learning.  The role of the teacher isn’t one to be replaced with technology.  Roblyer and Hughes believe that with an increase of technology, “good teachers are more essential now than ever” (2019, pp. 14-15). 

Technology has the potential to make many positive impacts on student learning.  It increases the students’ motivation and engagement in the content.  The lessons can be differentiated to meet individual learning style needs or content needs.  By utilizing technology while assessing, it allows the students to have instant feedback and in turn improves student learning.  This also saves the educator time spent on grading papers.  Classrooms no longer have to be isolated.  At the click of a mouse, technology can take students on virtual field trips around the world.  Technology also allows students the chance to increase their technical skills. 

Christian educators also have a biblical responsibility to implement technology into the classroom and to prepare the next generation of Christians to live for God and show students ways in which to share the good news.  In Matthew, Jesus commands believers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (New International Version, 1973/2002, Matthew 28:19).  The method of delivery was not addressed, but the message was clear.  In today’s world, technology is able to reach people all over the globe.  Just as one learning strategy doesn’t meet the needs of all learners; Christians must explore various ways in order to spread the good news.  Paul explains in the book of Romans that each person has been given different gifts from God to use (New International Version, 1973/2002, Romans 12:6-8).  Further in the New Testament Paul also teaches, “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (New International Version, 1973/2002, 1 Corinthians 10:31).  The gifts that we have been given must be used to glorify God and carry out His plans for our lives.  As Christian educators our first priority is to Christ and education second. 

In my classroom I strive to use technology as a tool that supports student learning.  At times it extends the classroom walls and allows those who find themselves quarantined at home to be included in the lesson.  Technology is used to provide accommodations for students who need passages read aloud.  I use it to individualize instruction and challenge students at their specific level. 

Technology serves as a tool that helps to improve communication and learning.  It is my responsibility as a Christian educator to use the tool to assist the next generation in reaching their full potential in Christ. 


References:

Hayner, C., & Thacker, J. (2019, July 29). What does the bible teach us about technology? ERLC. https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/what-does-the-bible-teach-us-about-technology/

International Society for Technology in Education (2021). ISTE standards for educators. https://www.iste.org/standards/for-educators

Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved January 31, 2021, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/technology

Roblyer, M. D. & Hughes, J. E. (2019). Integrating educational technology into teaching: Transforming learning across disciplines (8th ed.). Pearson

Wisnewski, J. (2020, June 22).  26 Bible verses about technology. Tithe.ly. https://get.tithe.ly/blog/technology-in-the-bible

 

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