Teaching with Tech by Vicky Hallett Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Teaching with Tech by Vicky Hallett - Essay Example According to Hallett, numerous academic institutions in the United States (US), particularly in the tertiary level, strive to employ the latest technological innovations in the classroom setting. For instance, colleges and universities including the John Hopkins University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology among others encourage the use of gadgets like camera phones, Wi-Fi laptops, course websites and other classroom technologies. The application of these new techniques has substantially revolutionized the learning process. In her article, Hallett asserts that the introduction of each new tool in the classroom brings about opportunities to further enhance the education process and results in the development of new learning models. Indicative of the significant contribution of technology to education, the term "e-learning" was coined. This refers to the use of multi-media technology to support learning and teaching. There are numerous instances that illustrate how technology has improved teaching and learning. For example, utilization of e-learning tools such as web-based courses and podcast lectures has made learning and teaching more flexible. Given these tools, students may easily access lectures of modules anytime, even outside the campus, through the internet. These tools enable students to conveniently review lecture notes or recorded lecture provided online if they misses any important point or find a particular lesson difficult. With these features, the education process is improved such that students are able to learn at their own pace ("Laying the foundation for the Future of Digital Learning," 2004). Similarly, technology has rendered support to teachers by providing additional avenues for learning. By using technology, teachers are able to create a relatively more interactive learning environment. Hallett cites the John Hopkins University as an example. In its biology class, all students are provided with thin blue devices which resemble remote controls. These devices make it possible for the professor to track students' participation. As the teacher flashes a question and corresponding choices on the monitor, students use their devices for pointing their answers on the screen. Similar to "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" their responses are then tabulated to gauge their comprehension of the subject matter presented. Aside from the use of Microsoft Powerpoint, Macromedia and other computer programs for presentation, Hallett also mentions the use of gaming concept in teaching. As more and more students become obsessed with Xbox and Playstation, teachers attempt to use these technological tools to promote interactive learning. Games like "The Sims" and "Civilization" have become part of some teachers' lesson plan. These make lessons more fun and sustain students' attention span. In response, software companies have also released new games which are in line with a specific course.An example of this is "Making History" created by Muzzy Lane Software. This video game allows students to play the role of World War II leaders and use critical thinking as well as teamwork to triumph by coming up with sound political and military judgments.