The introduction of technology in education is a subject that has undoubtedly caused extensive debates. Technology can be crucial in enhancing learners’ learning experience. Other people consider it a source of distraction and believe that it should not be integrated into the school curriculum and instruction. Technology can be crucial for educational success if it is carefully selected. This essay will explore the critical factors schools should consider before integrating technology into the curriculum to ensure a positive outcome for the learners.
Before integrating technology into the curriculum or instructional methods, schools must consider whether what is being integrated will benefit the learners. The benefits must outweigh the adverse effects. According to Source A, Students of Empire High School were not given textbooks when they started; instead, they were issued laptop computers. This transition from traditional textbooks to iBooks has increased learner interest. This suggests that the integration of technology into the curriculum can offer more engaging content, and this will promote learning. The simple calculation here is that technology enhances student engagement, enhancing information retention.
Some people, however, hold the belief that traditional textbooks are less distracting and more reliable because well-known and experienced scholars and authors write them. I cannot entirely agree with this view because it is based on the assumption that inexperienced individuals write every reading material found online. Nothing could be further from the truth. Furthermore, digital tools provide interactive aspects of learning that can cater to diverse learning styles. Therefore, the educational value of technology is an essential factor for schools to consider before integrating technology into learning.
Secondly, the cost of technological equipment is an essential factor to consider. Schools must ensure the equipment is within their budget to avoid neglecting other essential aspects of learning. According to Delaney (R4), the prices of individual technological devices, such as laptops, can vary depending on the model and the type. He says other costs, such as software licensing and digital textbooks that need funds to acquire, should be discussed. This will undoubtedly require a significant financial investment from the school. Schools should weigh the long-term educational benefits in relation to the initial costs. Technology can replace multiple traditional resources, which means that it will be cheaper in the long run.
Many people argue that the initial cost is too expensive and unaffordable for many schools, considering there will also be additional costs like training students, instructors, and maintenance. Although the initial cost can be too expensive for some schools, there are multiple ways schools can get around that. For example, through grants and partnerships with technological companies, to reduce the costs of these devices. Furthermore, as stated earlier, in the long run, using one technological device that stores all the required information will prove cheaper than the many different traditional sources of information. Therefore, although the initial costs can be steep, schools should still integrate technology into the curriculum as the long-term benefits will outweigh the initial investment. Therefore, the cost of technological devices is an essential factor to consider.
The whole point of integrating technology into the curriculum and instructional methods is to enhance student engagement, which will then enhance learning. This is important in aligning education with the digital age and ensuring learners are prepared for a technology-driven future. According to source C, technology has a transformative potential in education because it makes learning more relevant to the real world. Dyson says that learners must be technologically literate to be relevant in today’s world, where everything requires technological knowledge. Furthermore, Dyson highlights the importance of incorporating technology to intrigue learners and provide practical skills they can use in the job market.
Critics may argue that using technology in the classroom is more likely to cause distraction than provide any meaningful engagement for the learners, as they are at the age where their minds are the most curious and have short attention spans. I disagree with this view because it overlooks the fact that when used strategically, technology can provide engaging learning experiences tailored to every student’s needs, something that traditional methods fail to offer. This will help the students foster a deeper understanding of what they learn. Therefore, the critical role played by student engagement through technology must be considered before integrating technology into the curriculum.
In conclusion, it is vital to understand the factors that impact the successful integration of technology, as this is crucial for preparing learners for the real world. While there are valid concerns about what negative impacts this integration will have on the learners, it is essential to understand that the benefits of technology in education outweigh the adverse effects and that technology in education will foster an environment for conducive learning and growth.
Delaney, Kevin J. “Teaching Tools.” Wall Street Journal 17 Jan. 2005: R4. Print.
Dyson, Esther. Untitled essay. What We Believe But Cannot Prove Today’s Leading Thinkers on Science in the Age of Certainty. Ed. John Brockman. New York: Harper, 2006. 192–194. Print.
Rotstein, Arthur H. “Books Are Out, iBooks Are in for Students at Arizona High School.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch 19 Aug. 2005: C2. Print.