There is no doubt that the increasing prevalence of technology in classrooms nationwide has had an impact on how today’s students learn. Classroom computers, tablets and other devices have largely replaced the spiral notebooks and pencils of the past. Additionally, some institutions are moving toward a paperless initiative, where thousand-page textbooks are being foregone for digital resources. Overall, classroom computers and other technological advancements have allowed for leaps and bounds of innovation in schools, including the following ways:
Access to previously unattainable resources
One of the most impactful ways classroom computers have changed traditional learning is by providing access to the Internet and its endless expansive resources. Through these devices, students can connect with users and a range of beneficial resources from across the globe, a capability that not only enriches the learning process, but was thought impossible just a few decades ago.
Improving the capabilities of educators
Often times, when a school introduces classroom computers into the curriculum, the strategy also comes alongside a classroom monitoring system, providing teachers with better management and oversight of students’ activities. Without such technology in place, educators are doomed to walk around the room, peeking over students shoulders as they did in the past. However, a classroom monitoring system is better than the old “eyes in the back of one’s head” routine, as it enables the teacher to supervise their students from their own workstation.
Fostering technology skills for use beyond the classroom
One of the most important ways that classroom computers are changing conventional learning styles is by providing students with practical technology skills that will undoubtedly be leveraged outside the classroom. As users have become reliant on computers and other connected devices for nearly every aspect of everyday life, it is critical that today’s youth have the know-how to effectively operate these systems.