Technology plays a large role in many aspects of day-to-day life, and
education is no different. Technology is rapidly changing the way
students learn and how instructors teach.
Computers have replaced chalkboards as the go-to tool in classrooms
today. And it’s not just happening in higher education; technology is
part of education for children of all ages. It’s also a part of their
daily lives. According to a research study by Common Sense Media
published in October 2011, “computer use is pervasive among very young
children, with half (53%) of all 2 to 4 year olds having ever used a
computer, and nine out of 10 (90%) 5 to 8 year olds having done so.”
As technology continues to evolve, it brings with it new
opportunities and challenges for educators and students. Social
networking is a great example of technology that can help — or hinder —
education, depending on how it is used and integrated into teaching
plans. Privacy and security are two concerns that can come with using
social networking in the classroom. It can also become a distraction to
students, or even a tool used for bullying. According to a 2011 Pew report, 15% of children surveyed said they had been the victim of mean behavior on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.
However, using social networking as part of the learning process can
also have benefits. Students who are more introverted may open up and
connect more with faculty and other students when they are communicating
through social networking. It also affords students the opportunity to
collaborate and work together in a whole new way.
There are also social networking sites designed specifically for education. An article on technology in education by Education Week mentions ePals and eChalk as two sites “designed specifically for learning.”
College students can be notoriously connected to technology,
including social networking, through their smartphones, laptops, and
tablets. Social media in education presents college students with
different benefits and detriments compared to their younger
counterparts. According to Mashable,
“Facebook is the most used social media tool in higher education.”
Additionally, Mashable says that colleges can use social media to
encourage school spirit, foster the growth of alumni groups, and offer
virtual tours to potential students.
So whether it is a college student studying classic literature or a
grade school student first learning to read, technology is now an
integral part of the education process.
