Personal Philosophy of the Incorporation of Technology into Education

 

Personal Philosophy of the Incorporation of Technology into Education

David R. Sayles, Jr

EDUC 631 Foundations of Educational Technology and Online Learning

Purpose of Technology in Education

Innovation in Technology has been on the rise for as long as I can remember. The use of technology in education is becoming more popular as schools are looking to engage and educate students in ways that grasp their attention. From the use of Promethean boards to one-to-one Chromebook and iPad implementation. Technology is an important aspect of education. The use of technology in the classroom gives students the ability to choose how they learn. We often hear the term, “Everyone learns differently”, and that phrase tends to be true. Technology and its advancements have created a portal for students of all ages to receive a quality education with fewer obstacles. The use of educational technology has become important for today's learners because it offers them an opportunity to learn much faster than they would if they were not using such tools and programs (Lim 2022). Therefore, we can boldly claim that technology has been able to make the learning process easier for instructors to do their work, and for the students in acquiring and learning different subjects or lessons (Roblyer & Hughes, 2019). 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were forced to truly understand how far some people and places are behind from a technology aspect and how to properly use the technology that we already have at our fingertips. Closing the divides in education will take work with an increase in access to technology resources, one-to-one policies like the ones in most schools now will ensure each student has a laptop, and district commitments to ensuring that families have access to high-speed internet. We live in an era where students are addicted to their screens. There is no reason why we can't use technology for educational purposes to help bridge gaps. Simple measures such as this are necessary to create equity and balance for all students. 

With so many schools transitioning from traditional classroom settings and textbooks to the use of hybrid and online learning management systems, the use of technology is more important than ever. Nilson and Goodson (2018) acknowledge that a well-designed online course can create a lifelong learning relationship between the learner and their schools and teachers. This kind of relationship will keep students eager to learn and find interest in their courses. This directly correlates with increased student retention and continuous engagement. 

Biblical Response to the use of Technology in Teaching

There are negative and positive connotations to the use of technology among Christians. In my opinion, any object can be used for evil or negative gain, however; the intention of the person using it is what is important. As Christians, we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  Romans 8:28 (NIV) The Living Bible translation words it this way: “And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into his plans.”

In 1 Corinthians (9:22-23) Paul explains that as Christians we must by any means necessary ensure that the message of Christ reaches those around us. “To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.” Even with technology, we must use it accordingly to propel God’s people. 

Technology is not limited to a computer or cellular device. Various forms of technology were used to build Noah’s Ark. Most of that technology is the base of technologies we use today. In Genesis 4:22, the Bible points out that people before the Flood made musical instruments and tools made of bronze and iron. Moreover, Christians must judge technology while recognizing its good, especially about serving God’s people. Technological advances have done a lot to make education attainable for all students. For the integration of technology innovations in the classroom to be successful, professional development and dependable technical support must be available. Nilson and Goodson (2018) cite that “lack of training breeds doubts about the value of online learning and fear of the unknown". Educators also need to make sure the technology being used works the way it was intended and there is valuable technical support available should any technical issues arise (Nilson & Goodson, 2018).

References

Alexander, Lim (2021) Educational Technology: How Important Is It In Today's Education Industry? https://elearningindustry.com/how-important-is-technology-in-todays-education-industry#:~:text=The%20benefits%20of%20using%20educational,well%20as%20their%20physical%20health

Nilson, L. B., & Goodson, L. A. (2018). Online teaching at its best: A merger of instructional design with teaching. John Wiley & Sons.

New International Version. (2011). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/

Roblyer, M. D., & Hughes, J. E. (2019). Integrating educational technology into teaching (8th Edition.)