Technology as a method of learning, understand more about technology in the classroom

Some argue that there is little evidence to justify investing in technology in the classroom. In fact, some studies even suggest potential harm. Some have suggested links between screen time and increases in ADHD, screen addiction, aggression, depression and anxiety, dizziness, headaches, and blurred vision.

There is also a risk that schools will focus on acquiring the “next best” at the expense of developing students' interpersonal, cognitive, critical thinking, and communication skills. Teachers must use the technology in the classroom in a balanced way that enhances learning and skill development. Here are six evidence-based tips on how to do just that.

1. Use two (or more) ways to communicate
There are endless opportunities for student writing to appear in a way that combines two or more modes (such as visual, audio, or spatial). Making e-books, videos, animations, blogs, web pages, and digital games are the new ways of demonstrating literacy that involve clever combinations of these modes.

Words are rarely used alone on digital platforms now. Instead, they are illustrated with images, screen layouts, pop-ups, hyperlinks, and sounds to create meaning in different ways for, say, an essay.

2. Channel creativity
Look for opportunities for students to produce rather than consume, and to be interactive and creative, such as using technology in the classroom. Don't just play educational games, make them. Students shouldn't be sitting passively looking at a screen, or sitting through the content of a class while watching the teacher flip through slides.

Avoid educational software that simply requires students to participate in closed-ended, “fill-in-the-blank” responses. Although sometimes useful for memorizing information, such as spelling words, using platforms that encourage creativity and help children think for themselves is better for learning.

3. Choose collaboration
Provide students with opportunities to work together in learning and interacting with digital media. Collaborative digital activities can be used to engage students in higher order thinking skills and explore content in depth with the support of classmates.

This includes devices and software that enable multi-user learning and encourage students to interact with each other. This includes interactive discussion boards or apps like "Minecraft for Education" where students can experience a digital learning environment together and take advantage of technology in the classroom.

4. Movement is key
Many digital technologies involve greater sensory involvement than in the past. The use of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (also called hybrid reality, where digital and physical objects coexist) can encourage children to be physically active while using their brains.

This may include placing QR codes (markers) around the room for them to scan, or the student using augmented reality apps where their smartphone or tablet is used to render 3D objects, text, or animations on the screen when the camera is pointed. towards a marker to combine the technology in the classroom.