Technology and Curriculum

Throughout the history of education there are have been countless reforms and innovations. At this point in time, technology may be seen as one of the most prominent. As educators it is imperative to have an understanding of both the benefits and drawbacks of technology in the classroom. Within the last few decades it has become essential to prepare students for a world in which technology is prevalent. According to the National Center for Education Statistics technology is; information technology such as computers, devices that can be attached to computers (e.g., LCD projector, interactive whiteboard, digital camera), networks (e.g., Internet, local networks), and computer software. Gaining a better understanding of what technology is, allows for an analysis of the affects in education.

In a world where technology is prevalent, a stalemate exists in the pros and cons of technology in the classroom. It is widely agreed upon that it is in the students’ best interest for technology to be integrated into the educational setting. The U.S. Department of education, through various studies, states that technology can serve a myriad of purposes in education. However, the implementation of the integration holds a vast number of flaws.

To begin, as often in education, there is a lack of funding. In order to provide schools with current technology there is a need for funding. Although the cost may have decreased over the last several years, it continues to be excessive in many cases. When schools lack the resources, up to date technology is rarely an option. It is not merely the devices or software that must be purchases, but also a technical coordinator or some variation of is most likely employed.

This leads to another aspect of technology which may not be seen as a benefit, the lack of knowledge of technology. The faculty of each school is required to have an understanding of what is available in order to provide it for students. This, at the very least, requires workshops and teacher training. This is not only costly but time consuming as well. Therefore, with the implementation of technology it is necessary to have the cooperation of the staff.

Incorporating technology into lessons may be exciting of the students but at times more difficult on the teacher. Finding the proper material can be time consuming. Also, the technological tools may be wonderful in many aspects, however, come up short in others. For instance, compared to a blackboard, the smart board can only have one writer at a time. Including internet research in projects may allow for a larger wealth of knowledge for the class but can also lead to social networking sites, games, and unrelated material. Educators are in a position to blend new technology into the curriculum but with a lack of time and funding, it is less feasible in many areas.

Technology is a positive resource to be used in education. With time, it is possible for students to be educated not only with the implementation of technology but also the knowledge of what it is. In order for this to happen, there must first be an increase in the education of teachers. It is not reasonable to expect educators to incorporate technology into the curriculum with a lack of understanding themselves. Finally, funding will continuously play a large role in the inclusion of technology. There will continue to be lack of computers, technology staff, and tool until the resources are made available. However, the educational community has made strides through the last several decades in the area of technology and will continue to do so.