Philosophy
Educational Technology Philosophy Statement
Students today are surrounded by a technology driven society. School classroom settings should not hinder a student’s ability to use, interact, and gain experience with technology. Societal success requires a knowledge and ability to use modern technology along with topic specific subject matter, such as chemistry, math, reading, and writing.
Daily functions and activities that were previously time consuming and/or physically demanding are now fulfilled with modern technology. Students are exposed to these technologies at a very young age. From this early age students develop a vast understanding and ability to use many differing technologies. For instance; cell phones, computers, fax machines, gaming software, word processors, internet websites, blogs, chatrooms, instant messaging, digital cameras, digital camcorders, and many others.
Utilizing technology in the classroom will continue to expand on the knowledge these students have and assist with their comfort when using the technology. The increase in knowledge and use expands the student’s access to resources and opportunity for creativity. The internet permits distant worlds and ideas to be no farther than a finger click away. Other technologies allow students to capture their creativity and enhance it as they deem necessary.
Technology is a mutual interest among all students, using this interest helps teach and reinforce the purpose of education. Aside from the traditional subject matter students learn improved reasoning and research skills to conjure up relevant and valuable information. Upon gaining this knowledge they are learning how to synthesize, compare and contrast, discriminate, and evaluate material from various references in a manner that they enjoy.
Technology also allows for teachers to create a more collaborative environment to enhance their own skills and abilities. The ability to connect with other educators in which they may have never had the opportunity to speak with to gain valuable input is priceless. When educators improve themselves, they in-turn improve the lessons being taught, which should then reciprocate to the students.
The skills and traits students learn from the use of technology are essential in the technologically advanced world that we live in. Without these skills and trait students are not going to thrive in the setting we live. The use of technology in education is the best way to prepare students for the world ahead of them.
-Kyle Ellis
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