Technology in the Classroom

Technology can help facilitate the knowledge-constructed classroom. A number of researchers ([Bork, 1985, Laboratory of Comparative Human Cognition, 1989, Papert, 1980 and Ragosta, 1983]) views computers as having an influential effect on the teaching and learning processes. They state that with the use of computers in the classroom, schools would become more student-centered and that more individualized learning would take place than ever before.

In the student-centered classrooms of today, with the aid of the computer, students are able to collaborate, to use critical thinking, and to find alternatives to solutions of problems ([Jaber, 1997]). But the shift from teacher-centered delivery to a student-centered model potentially leads to a resistance in change. Student-centered teaching is challenging educators to restudy their teaching methods and student learning methods ( [Jaber, 1997]).

Research done by [Dwyer et al., 1991] indicates that computers can be used in collaboration for all subject areas, but that teachers have to take into account the different styles of teaching and the students involved in this learning. This type of teaching requires a change in the teacher's method of teaching and learning, the amount of time needed to learn how to use the technology and the location of models that work with technology ( [Sheingold and Hadley, 1990. K. Sheingold and M. Hadley, Accomplished teachers: integrating computers into classroom practice. , Bank Street College of Education, New York (1990).Sheingold and Hadley, 1990]).

[Negroponte et al., 1997] argue:

…that digital technologies can enable students to become more active and independent learners. The Internet will allow new “knowledge-building communities” in which children and adults from around the globe can collaborate and learn from each other. Computers will allow students to take charge of their own learning through direct exploration, expression, and experience. This shifts the student's role from “being taught” to “learning” and the teacher's role from “expert” to “collaborator” or “guide”.


References
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6VCJ-497YSWN-1&_user=409397&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_searchStrId=966886236&_rerunOrigin=scholar.google&_acct=C000019483&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=409397&md5=2af6594c200d7cb88a6bb9240ee2e044