Blog #62 – IMPORTANCE OF TECHNOLOGY IN LEARNING
The importance of technology has become more obvious in recent years. Calculators and computers are present in almost all mathematics classrooms. Tablets and cell phones are available to a large portion of the student population. These, and other technological advancements,m are impacting the way lessons are taught in the classroom.
The first technological tool that I implemented in the classroom was the handheld scientific calculator. The availability of calculators allowed students to focus more on the solution of a mathematics problem and less on computations. Although students were using calculators more frequently in the classroom, I stressed the important of obtaining solutions without its use as much as possible. I did not want my students to become dependent on the use of the calculator. Having a calculator available allowed for using different techniques for solving problems. For example, when solving systems of equations, I traditionally used substitution and elimination. Once the graphing calculator became available I was able to solve the same problems by graphing and looking for the point of intersection. Thus, students could now master an additional way of solving systems of equations.
The next technological tool that I started using when teaching my students was the computer. The computer is now an integral part of many lessons that I teach. Initially I used the computer to do research on how to teach different concepts. When Youtube became available, I began looking at videos that gave me an opportunity to view the teaching of concepts in a variety of ways. Now the computer can be used in the classroom to show videos about any aspect of mathematics. Whether it is learning its history, learning its applications or other features, the computer has helped unveil the “Magic of Mathematics”.
Currently, mobile devices have become more available to teachers, parents and students. We now have access to a “handheld” computer. Teachers need to embrace technology and how it can be used to motivate a love of learning in general and a love of mathematics in particular. Technology brings excitement to teaching. When combined with a teacher’s skills, technology can be a very powerful tool to promote learning. I am constantly looking for ways to implement technology in my quest to be better teacher.