Learning Technologies and Other Modern Teacher Resources

As an adult, it is amazing to walk into a modern classroom. They are just so different from the ones we remember learning from. Blackboards have been replaced by whiteboards, rulers have been replaced by smartphones, and in many cases, teachers have been replaced by robots! Just kidding (for some of my older readers who might be concerned). But it is not uncommon these days to see classes taught totally or partially on computers. The amount of learn technology that has been introduced into the classroom is staggering. And they have helped facilitate student teaching and learning over the past decade. Some of these educational technologies are classroom websites, mobile devices, podcasts, and e-learning products.

Class websites are a great and easy way for teachers to facilitate online learning. While traditional classes are still taught, teachers have the opportunity to post additional educational material and even assignments on a website. In many cases, a university will allow students to view all of their courses at the same time, on a site like Blackboard. This helps students manage a large number of courses and manage all their curriculum, resources, and assignments. Class lesson plans may also be available.

Mobile devices have been useful resources in the classroom since the invention of clickers and smartphones. Clickers help facilitate PowerPoint presentations that teachers often use to their advantage. Instead of writing notes on the board as they teach the class, teachers can prepare their lesson plans in advance and click on the notes and diagrams while giving a lecture. Smartphones like the iPhone and the Droid are easy to bring to a class and can hold information, diagrams, and other tools that can be helpful for student learning.

Podcasts are a great new way for teachers to communicate with students remotely. Needing only a computer, a microphone, and an internet connection, educators can post a video or audio recordings of their lesson plans. This is a great tool for distance learning or when a student cannot attend a class. Many teachers make an audio recording of each of their traditional classes and post them online later for students to rewatch.

E-learning is a new trend in educational technology training. It is when students use computers to learn, usually by accessing online curriculum resources through the Internet, cloud computing, or software. With learning technology, entire classes can be taught without having to meet in a traditional classroom. While this is great for distance learning, many subjects, such as health care education and business education, require hands-on instruction. Educators have created a hybrid between traditional learning and e-learning called blended learning, which allows them to reap the benefits of time management and engagement from online learning while still offering personal instruction.

About This Author

Hridoy Ahmed Joined: December 15th, 2019