Should your child be using Technology in the Classroom? Here's how you can help.

Technology as we know it refers to the use of our cellphones or computers, access to the internet and the use of Projectors, Smart boards, among other things. Educational Technology according to Robinson and Molenda is "the practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using and managing ...technological resources."   The Ministry of Education, Schools and even individual teachers view technology as an important tool or resource in enhancing the teaching and learning process. So then, why is the classroom so boring?

Well. Preparing a lesson takes time and lots of thought. The truth is, not all teachers are prepared to use that much time or that much thought. As a result, the lessons are repeated year after year and the teachers themselves become bored of the topic. Secondly, Teachers sometimes don't know how to use the technology and are hesitant to experiment in the classroom. They are aware that today's students are technologically savvy and are better at technology than they are. With this in mind, some teachers would rather not try Technology.











Yes, your child should be using technology in the classroom. Several studies have proven its benefits for the students. It enhances grades, aids with problem solving, develops critical thinking, prepares them for the future, assist in retaining information, among other things. Fact! It will not happen right now. At least, not in a whole-scale manner. You will find some teachers who use it and do so effectively but having every one on board will take some time, effort, training and possibly threatening.

So what can you do as a parent?

• Firstly, accept the benefits of technology for education and allow your children to use their devices. 
• Search Educational Games that cover the same content from class
• Find videos on YouTube that teach the entire topic
• Access free courses on Teachable.com that are designed to help them learn
• Let your child write or create an online Review about a topic.
• Let them teach the topic to you or another family member
• Help them make a video about the topic and share

• Help them create a song about the topic and share on the blog so other students can learn from it.
• Collaborate with other learners and discuss the topic in Google Classroom
  
• Find a blog (like this one) that is willing to give free explanations on difficult topics. 

There are several ways that technology can be used inside and outside of the classroom to enhance student learning. 

Help your child get there...