The Effects of Technology on Educational Theory and Practice: A 20-Year Perspective

Stefani Wiest

ET-New Trends

IL-Media Literacy

Allen, D. W. (2003). The Effects of Technology on Educational Theory and Practice: A 20-Year Perspective. Computers In The Schools, 20(1/2), 49.

Summary: With the inception of new technologies into the school library setting, the effects of learning strategies introduce both pros and cons to student learning. According to the author, technologies are now often used to manage the process of education, but there can be a lack of technological understanding with both students and teachers. Also, the use and availability of this technology is not only important within the school, but also outside of school hours. Not all students have sufficient computer accessibility during school or after school hours. Because of this discrepancy, some students will enter college with a vast knowledge of computers and technological access while others will have very little experience or understanding. Another issue is that many teachers remain untrained as how to explore the possibilities of computer technologies. Schools also need to find ways to make access easy, comfortable and legal for teachers and students. To enhance a teacher’s knowledge of technologies, some schools have introduced programs, such as student tech teams. The author identifies both pro and cons to this approach.

Evaluation: This article identifies many of the pitfalls regarding access and the understanding of technology now widely used in schools. Although there is a tremendous potential for learning with the use of technology in schools, many of the barriers need to be addressed for technology to be a useful learning tool. Because of the newness of providing students with school computers and the introduction of 21^st century skills, education is transitioning into new learning models and behaviors. Students not only need to overcome these barriers but the teaching staff as well.