With the evolution of technology, the focus has been integrating technology in schools so as to revolutionize our education system. However, policymakers and administrators fail to recognize that technology is simply a tool for learning, no different than an electronic calculator. While there is evidence that supports a correlation between the use of technology in schools and learning outcomes, it is not the same as saying that technology is helping children with their learning. Just because children are attracted to the latest and greatest gadget outside the classroom, it does not mean that they will be engaged by the next shiny digital device.
What matters most is not the technology itself, but rather how teaching professionals use the technology in the classroom. Therefore, investing in technology itself is not sufficient. Policymakers and administrators need to ensure that our teaching professionals are comfortable and equipped with the right skills to explore the digital tools. It also requires teaching professionals to embrace a new way of teaching, creating an active learning environment where students are eager to learn and feel safe to discover their own learning. After all, learning is about construction of new knowledge rather than the content itself.
While technology offers speed in terms of computing capability, it can never replace human values, behaviour and judgement. It can also never replace the best teaching professionals who "inspire, challenge, and excite students to want to learn". (Veritasium, 2014). They instill the right values and behaviour in students, enabling them to think critically on issues rather than be passive recipients of information. Thereby, providing students with essential skills that are valuable and helpful across different areas of life, be it socially, professionally or at schools.
Reference
Veritasium. (2014, December 1). This Will Revolutionize Education. Retrieved from YouTube: