The Negative Effects of Using Technology in the Classroom

In class on Monday we discussed how the Internet has impacted education. Most of us growing up had dial up internet, MSN messenger, and AOL instant messenger. Now it seems that a new smartphone is coming out every few months not to mention tablets and apps. There are so many new technologies now than ever before. We debated in class over whether or not students should use a calculator to enter 5x5 or whether they should learn the basics of multiplication. Most of us agreed in contrast to what Dr. Glassman believes and that is that students still need to be taught the basics. Like someone mentioned in class if a student just enters 5x5 into a calculator or on a laptop they won't understand the concept of multiplication. I think technology is a great thing when it is used in a way that will enhance students' knowledge. Using technology in classrooms can have some downfalls though. I found an article that highlights several of the negative effects technology can have on the classroom. It mentions how technology is being used more than ever before, but that it can do a disservice to students such as that it can take away valuable learning time, it can be overused, and it can also turn educational experiences into games for students. "If the teacher and students are not experienced with technology in the classroom, valuable time is often wasted on technical troubles." I remember when I was in high school we would have to just sit and wait while she tried to mess with the smartboard. That time was just wasted and no learning occurred. Overusing technology in the classroom can lead to a variety of problems. "Many students learn best by physically and mentally interacting with what they are studying. If most of the teaching is done using a computer, these students' needs are not being met." What many students in class were trying to say is that "technology should be used to supplement the classroom curriculum, but should not be used as the sole source of learning" as the article points out. The article also states that often times students associate computers and technology with game playing and that if teachers don't address that then students will easily get distracted and off task. The link for the article is http://classroom.synonym.com/negative-effects-using-technology-todays-classroom-4130.html if you are interested in reading more. Technology is a great thing when used appropriately and the most important and should only be used as a supplement to the classroom curriculum.