Technology to support learning

Technology is an important instrument in assisting students and teachers to make the most of the teaching and learning experience. The hardest part is to know what to use, how to use it and when to use it. The school I worked in for the past 12 years, embarked itself in a promising journey to integrate technology in an effort to support teachers and students in raising the standards of achievement that it proudly exhibited. In no distinct order, we were involved with Intranet development, laptops, robotics, projectors and Smart Boards. Yet, it took a while to see fruitful results from the appropriation of technology. Results in recent examinations have raised a concern in the way technology is being used by the institution. The newly appointed headmaster is currently working on a technology plan for the years to come.

Markham has to work harder in bringing real-world problems to classrooms aided by technology. Teachers need to form a network of contacts with working professionals in various fields that can dedicate some time to assist students in adequately using the technology that they have available. For many years, Markham has rested on their oars and has failed to provide collaborative experiences to help students understand concepts and complex systems. On the other hand, Markham has done a good job connecting the parents to the school through the Intranet. In the past, parents complained that it was difficult for them to know what their children were doing. Now they are able to access information in real-time on homework, assessment, and teacher comments. Some even check this web site from work on a regular basis during the day.

With respect to courses, the introduction of Design Technology has brought some new elements of computer-based learning tools that give students in the high school the chances to use simulations and three-dimensional virtual models. In Mathematics, the school is currently working it's entire curriculum based on a Moodle platform and interactive applications that provide instant feedback of students' progress. Moodle has also proved to be an effective tool to allow students to collaborate and make students' reasoning more visible. The internet has enabled students to access the material from home, so students are able to continue working after school. This particular framework is geared towards enabling students to develop withing their capabilities.

There are other technologies that the school needs to incorporate like classroom communication technologies (clickers). However, in the mean time some classes are using the traffic lights system of colored cards to see how students are doing understanding concepts. Video conferencing can also be used to assist in contacting other schools around the world, since this is a Peruvian-British school thatteaches primarily in English. Technology resources nowadays function in a social environment mediated by learning conversations with peers and teachers. However, it is crucial that teachers are prepared to understand the principles of learning before selecting software or teacher-support tools that may hinder learning. It is not just about getting the latest technology gadgets. The school has to work harder in opening itself and constantly train itself in using technology.