EDUC 630 - Nature of Technology Use in Schools

Up until recently, I believe the nature of technology used in schools has been to utilize new technology as a replacement for sound instruction.  For some reason, educators and parents have come to the technology revolution with the idea that it will be the magic bullet to solve all education problems and overcome all learning hurdles.  However, all stakeholders are becoming more realistic about the possibilities and limits of technology.  We are finally accepting the fact that technology is a tool to improve instruction, not to replace instructors.  Educators are now beginning to use technology for a more individualized instruction model, in order to meet the needs of all students.

I think the barriers that exist when considering and utilizing technology are both funding related and teacher related.  It is expensive to upgrade classrooms, and indeed whole school districts, with appropriate technology.  Add to that that there are many teachers who have been teaching for many years who are reluctant to change the way they teach.  Additionally, there is a lack of pre-knowledge on the educator’s part regarding how to utilize technology properly.  Finally, there is a lack of professional development at all levels of knowledge for teachers and administrators.