10 Ways to Use Technology in the Classroom

There’s no denying it: we live in a digital world. Everywhere you look, there’s someone on a smartphone, a computer, or some other tech device. Even our cars have advanced technology that helps us get from point A to point B while listening to the latest tunes. So, why not utilize technology in the classroom? 

Implementing technology in school allows students access to more resources, which enriches their learning experience and makes for a more productive time in class. Here are ten ways to use technology in the classroom.

10 Ways to Use Technology in the Classroom

1. Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive whiteboards offer a simple way for teachers to display information for students to see. These smart boards allow teachers the traditional way of writing on the whiteboard for everyone to see, but it has many more capabilities as well. 

Interactive whiteboards can display educational videos, PowerPoint presentations, and even display the screen of a computer or laptop. This is an excellent tool for teachers to use to show new information in a fun and interactive way in class. It also eliminates the need for expensive materials like dry-erase markers and erasers, which means more money can be allocated to special programs and extra-curricular activities.

2. Computers or Laptops

Many careers today require the use of a laptop or computer, so it makes sense that using them in the classroom would be a good idea. Kids who learn how to use this technology early are at an advantage when they move into their adult careers as a result.

Computers and laptops can be used in a variety of ways to satisfy the needs of a classroom. In core subjects like math and science, students can complete assignments and tests on computers, which saves paper and can be easier for teachers to grade. Elective classes like art can utilize computers to create digital designs that help develop students’ creativity and versatility.

3. MultiMedia Projectors

Multi-media projectors are compact pieces of technology that allow project high-quality resolution images over a wall or unique screen. These projectors can be used to show presentations, videos, movies, and other photos so that all students can see. Many modern projects also come with sound systems, which gives all students a great view and easy listening experience.

4. Document Cameras

Document cameras are a fantastic resource for teachers to use when working with hard-copy resources in class. Operating this technology is simple: simply place a picture, storybook, or handout under the camera, and it is routed through a multi-media projector and displayed on a larger scale.

This technology is helpful in more ways than you might think. It can be used to read a storybook, give hand pointers, give a test, and even take pictures of certain resources to be used in later lessons. The image produced from a document camera is similar to that of a smartphone camera in that it displays the image in real-time, as well.

5. Virtual Reality Headsets

Modern-day technology has made it possible to have a more immersive experience in school than ever before. Virtual reality headsets are a great example of this type of technology. These headsets have viewfinders that display live-action videos through goggles worn on students’ heads and can be used in almost any class setting.

Science students can see virtual reality science experiments or have a front-row seat to viewing occurrences they learn about in class, like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. History students can walk through ancient Egyptian pyramids or visit Easter Island right from their desks. VR experiences make class time more fun and exciting, positively impacting test scores and keeping students more engaged in learning.

6. 3D Printers

3D Printers are high-tech pieces of equipment that produce three-dimensional models from computer-created designs. This technology can allow students to understand engineering on a more in-depth level, which can open doors for them to have a more successful future beyond grade school.

Even students who aren’t interested in modeling and engineering careers can benefit from access to a 3D printer. In addition to creating models for jobs like these, the printers can also be used for art projects or models to be used in presentations by students and teachers alike.

7. Video Conferences

Video conferencing is a tool that can be used in many different ways in modern classrooms. It gives teachers the ability to connect over high-speed internet to different classrooms across the globe, which can enrich students learning and engage them in new cultures without ever leaving their home town. 

Aside from learning experiences in the classroom, video conferencing can also be beneficial in other ways. Teachers who are unable to travel to class can remotely teach a lesson. Additionally, parents who wouldn’t ordinarily be able to attend teacher conferences can do so without the necessity of a true face-to-face meeting.

8. Smart Tables

Similar to interactive whiteboards, smart tables take information from the wall and display it on tables. These pieces of technology are considered to be sturdier than their wall-mounted counterparts and can support more simultaneous interactions.

These tables are particularly well-suited for classrooms with younger students, since they are closer to the ground than interactive whiteboards. It’s also worth noting that proximity to the ground makes them more accessible to students with physical disabilities.

9. Digital Textbooks

In place of expensive physical textbooks, high-tech digital textbooks are an excellent resource for any classroom, regardless of the subject or grade level. Digital textbooks are an excellent alternative to physical copies because they don’t get worn, they can be marked in without disturbing the next owner, and they are more versatile since they are often more like digital databases than a traditional textbook.

They also have the capability of being more easily updatable. Classrooms who implement digital textbooks have access to more up-to-date information since additional to excerpts can be made without the necessity of ordering new materials for the entire school.

10. Video Games

Perhaps one of the most exciting technology uses in the classroom for many students is the use of video games in class. Using games to facilitate learning in the class gets students excited about completing their assigned work and helps keep them motivated to learn. There are a variety of educational games available today that are low-cost and sometimes even free. Many more paid versions are designed to help incentivize students to complete assignments and display model behaviors while at school.

Technology and the Classroom

As the world around us evolves, so do our classrooms. With the rise of technology, teachers and students have more resources available for an enriched learning experience than ever before. By using technology in the school, teachers and students have a more well-rounded learning and teaching experience overall.

About Jessica Phillips
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