Myth #1: Technology is ‘Disruptive’
The ‘disruptive’ label is commonly associated with technology, one which has urged educators to look in the opposite direction. While the term may not hold a place in education, the tools certainly do. Technology within the classroom encourages a new approach to pedagogy, facilitating a more collaborative, engaging and creative workspace, with no cause for distraction. It’s time for educators to re-evaluate their understanding of technology, as a tool that can bring harmony to a class, rather than pose a ‘disruptive’ threat.
Myth #2: Technology is Over-Complicated and Time-Consuming
We often linger under the false impression that all technology is the same. With tools on the market offering over-complicated systems that wind up hindering your teaching as opposed to improving it, it’s no wonder many conclude that it’s not worth the investment. Although certain teaching tools are guilty of this crime, to view them all as worthless is a huge mistake. The right system works around you, allowing you to indulge in all the benefits that mobile, flipped and blended learning have to offer, while saving you precious time. The key is finding a flexible system that allows you to make better, faster lessons, and improve the quality of your teaching and your students’ learning.
Myth #3: Technology Will Replace the Teacher
As advanced systems continue to render certain jobs obsolete, it’s understandable to fear the fate of the teacher as technology takes a lead role. A fact that many overlook is that within the tech-filled classroom, the educator gains more importance than ever before. Using technology as a tool to speed up the teaching process and make it more efficient and effective, more time is allocated to developing the essential student skills of the 21st century. As “guide on the side”, the educator remains the key instructor in the classroom, equipped with the technological tools to help students advance. In simple terms: Technology could never replace the teacher.
Myth #4: Tech-Savvy Teachers are Computer Nerds
It is a common misconception that so-called ‘tech-savvy’ teachers were born that way. This is simply not the case. All educators who are now integrating technology on a regular basis started somewhere basic, with something small. All you need to begin is a supportive Personal Learning Network (PLN), a user-friendly platform, and some helpful tips from colleagues. By starting small, you can pave your way to becoming a ‘tech-savvy’ teacher in no time.
Myth #5: Technology Means Becoming a Different Teacher
While there is an element of truth to this, technology doesn’t have to change you as a teacher. It can, however, make you more efficient and effective. With the tools to decrease your workload and increase student engagement, you can use technology to make lasting changes for the better in your professional life. It’s important to remember that technology is merely a tool to implement your strategies; You remain the primary instructor in your classroom.
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About the author:
Lorna Keane specializes in language teaching and has taught in second and third-level institutions in several countries. She holds a B.A in languages and cultural studies and an M.A in French literature, theory and visual culture. Follow her on Twitter or connect on LinkedIn.
Image credits: Morten Oddvik / CC BY 2.0
