Technology and Learning

Technology and Learning

Rachel Salley

Walden University

New Technologies and Their Possible Applications to and Implications for Learning

The evolution and development of new learning technology is happening at such a rapid rate that it is affecting teacher instruction and student learning. Some technologies one may observe in a classroom are cameras, tape recorders, computers, Smart Boards, etc. New learning technologies are requiring school officials, administrators, teachers, and students to go beyond traditional curriculums, instruction, and learning. Although new technologies in the classroom bring about different and unique ways of instruction and learning, some people are not sold on using it in the classroom. This paper will explore the government’s influence on the use of technology in the classroom. It will provide examples of learning technologies being used today. Finally, a case study on the impact of class lecture webcasting on attendance and learning will be reviewed.

Government’s Influence on the Use of Technology in the Classroom

Government leaders are strongly concerned about the lack of knowledge and skills that students are acquiring in schools. Also, another concern is whether students are gaining the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a world that is technologically advanced. Government leaders believe that students may not be able to compete on an international level because current public school assessments focus on being able to recall facts that do not measure a child’s ability to think critically and to solve problems effectively. Political leaders fear students will be unprepared to perform in a workforce that has been transformed by the internet, wireless communication, and the vast array of tools constantly changing in the technological field. The No Child Left Behind legislation passed in January 2002 actually requires that States show evidence that every student is technologically literate by the time the student...