Technology and the Teacher

          Almost everyone believes that technology has made life easier and more comfortable and that it has enabled us to perform tasks that we could not do otherwise. Even in school or in our homes, teachers and even a group of kindergarten students are seen glued to computers, touchpads and cell phones looking for information, playing games, chatting with friends etc. Anything and everything seems to be available at the click of a button.

          We cannot deny the fact that technology and education are pretty intertwined these days and nearly every teacher has a few favourite techie tools that make doing his or her job and connecting with students a little bit easier and more fun for all involved. Technologies are perfect for kids, the cool information will keep them interested as they learn some important ideas and concepts along the way for it covers a wide range of interesting areas including the Internet, video games, computers, cell phones, robots and more. But, can technology replace a teacher? Of course, not!

           Although, the computers are extremely useful for the students, they cannot completely replace the teachers. For example, teacher can sense when students are losing interest in the lecture and introduce some changes in the pattern of lecture to revive their interest. This cannot be done by computer.

          In spite of the advantages that technologies and computers may offer, still the teacher should be and must always be the in-charge of the class. A teacher can use technology in his/her discussion with the class like presenting it in a white board, using LCD projector, powerpoint presentation but he/she must first learn how to use the equipment and then decide whether or not it supports the class objectives and curriculum. As what Shelley Pasnik said: “Incorporating technology into the classroom requires a double innovation”.

          Teachers have something that computers never will. They are people, and have the ability to use compassion in their lessons. Teachers can better adjust their lessons to students' needs than technology could, and can provide more comprehensive feedback to student which is what they really need in order to achieve academic success. Yes, technology can be a tool or instrument that would help teaching however a teacher will always have a reason to be needed for technology cannot comprehend a person's unique characteristic like a human being can.

          And to put it in a nutshell, a good teacher can make use of technology to teach well! But, remember technology is just a supplement not a substitute.