Fusing Teaching with Technology

It has been often thought that out of man’s mind the tools needed to survive and change the world emerge. In the case of the formidable minds of today’s youth, the digital tools have impacted their minds. The 21^st century student is one that is in touch with the various tools of the digital world and values these tools as meaningful ways of interaction. The modern teacher must incorporate these devices in relevant and functional way, as well as honoring the multiple intelligences and learning styles found in any classroom today.

As there are 8 identified intelligences according to Howard Gardner, the traditional industrial model of learning is not effective, nor is it relevant to how the world engages socially. Technology can be used to promote a depth of understanding with all types of learning styles. Musical, interpersonal, mathematical, et cetera, can be enhanced with careful and thoughtful planning. Even the kinesthetic learners can engage and produce evidences of learning digitally. Contrary to popular belief, technology will not replace an effectively planned lesson with clear objectives and measurable learning outcomes. Good teaching must be the foundation of effective education. Currently, the integration between technology and curricular planning is not ubiquitously effectual. There is a need to allow the standardized testing culture to become secondary to having a contemporary and meaningful educational outcome.

Our world is digitally active in all possible means of function. Professional success is now partially connected to one’s ability to interface efficiently and increase productivity through computers and related tools. I can recall many instances when students would ask me the real-world relevance and application of what they were learning in school. Granted, the educators must seek more professional interaction with professionals in fields related to subject matter, but technological skills are transferrable to many different contexts. It is a major hurdle for teachers to learn and use digital creativity to strengthen pedagogy.