With a reported 95% of teachers using technology in the classroom, it’s no secret that its presence is here to stay. And with 12% of students that have no access to the internet or a computer at home, its presence in the classroom is more crucial than ever.
Today, we’ll look at the evolution of technology in the classroom as well as its many benefits.
Evolution of Technology in the Classroom: A Timeline
The first technology in the classroom was introduced in the 1920s with the radio. Here are key milestones as technology has become commonplace in schools.
1920s: With the advent of radio, on-air classes were disseminated to students within listening range.
1930: Overhead projector introduced.
1951: Videotapes arrived on the scene, creating a new form of instruction.
1959: Photocopier arrives in schools, allowing for mass production of instructional material.
1963: Vocational Education Act passes which supports technology in schools.
1968: Logo, a simple coding program with a trademark turtle graphic, was introduced to students at Muzzey Jr. High School in Lexington, MA.
1972: Handheld calculator makes its way into the hands of students
1978: Apple participates in Minnesota Education Computing Consortium, which installed 5,000 computers across the state.
1983: As part of their “Kids Can’t Wait” program, Apple donates Apple IIe computers to eligible primary and secondary schools across California.
1986: Usage of PCs in high school hits 25%.
1994: Most US classrooms have at least one PC in the classroom for instructional delivery. Not all teachers have a PC for instructional preparation.
Late 1990s to Present: Evolution of 1:1 Device Programs
The evolution of technology in the classroom reached a critical moment in the late 1990s with the introduction of 1:1 student computing. One-to-one student computing means one computer for every student. Generally, Apple devices dominated primary schools and secondary schools favored Windows devices.
However, the advent of the iPad in 2010 and Chromebook in 2011 changed everything in 1:1 computing. iPads were first introduced in the classroom in 2010 while Chromebooks hit classrooms in 2012. By 2014, Chromebook sales had surpassed iPad sales. By 2019, 30 million students and educators used Chromebooks with 60% of the market share in North America alone (2018). Despite the Chromebook’s run on the market, iPads continue to be extremely popular for young learners.
It’s estimated that 40% of US schools have a 1:1 program, with another 30% of schools having at least one device for five or less students. Type of device for students is contingent on many factors: age of students, budget, and benefits. Despite the popularity of 1:1 programs, one statistic remains particularly troublesome: teachers report that 12% of students don’t have access to the internet or computer at home. In a world where technology dominates, 1:1 programs are a lifeline for these learners to prepare them for the future.
Impact & Benefits of Technology in the Classroom
The widespread use of technology in the classroom has made a dramatic impact in education. Namely, it’s transformed the way teachers teach and how learners learn. Teachers are not simply delivering a lesson, but coaching students through related activities on their devices. While at times controversial and misunderstood, technology in the classroom does offer a host of benefits.
#1: Transforms Ordinary Lessons
Technology-based education not only engages learners, but it can also make boring lessons more palatable for disinterested students. Using video or an interactive activity on a subject that a student doesn’t like can generate new interest in the subject.
#2: Assists with Student Comprehension
Gone are the days where there are limited ways to teach and learn a difficult subject. If a student finds a particular subject challenging, there are more options to assist in their comprehension with technology. Technology-based learning incorporates different learning styles, which allow for students to tackle difficult subject according to their needs.
#3: Sets Individualized Pace for Learning
Since most apps allow for individualized instruction, students can learn according to their needs and their abilities. This is helpful to both student and teacher, as the teacher can devote time to struggling students individually.
#4: Prepares Students for the Future
Whether a student attends college or enters the workforce post high school, technology will be a part of their daily lives. Using technology in the classroom will prepare students to overcome any digital demands they may face as they live and work in the 21st century.
#5: Collaboration & Connection
Contrary to some beliefs, technology in the classroom encourages collaboration and connection between students and between teachers and students. Learning is less singular with technology-based education and it fosters discussions, debates, and other interactive activities. It can give students a confidence not otherwise found in traditional classroom settings as well as a voice to those who may not otherwise have one. It not only connects students with their fellow classmates but can also connect students across time zones and countries.
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