Education is making a quantum leap by incorporating technology in its stride. Technology will revolutionise every aspect of human existence and the teacher also has to master it. The specific role of teachers and technology vis-a-vis learning atmosphere and learning platform has become of paramount importance.
Much of a child's ability to learn depends on the learning environment and this can be provided only by teachers. There are lots of stoppages in the existing environment in the class room. It is the responsibility of teachers to transform it into an encouraging one. Teacher motivates, strengthens the morale, fortifies the confidence and assists in guiding the learners. Teachers could also establish excellent rapport with parents.
At the same time, technology is the determining and inevitable part of the "learning platform." Through technology, teachers can overturn the methodology of teaching. Students also can learn from anywhere and teachers can teach from anywhere. Students will take ownership of their own learning. Teachers can put resources for students online. Thanks to the cloud and mobile devices.
Yes, it is true that technology can do a number of teaching functions quite effectively, but this does not mean that it can diminish the role of the teacher. Technology is not a perfect substitute for a teacher. Teaching methodology must undergo revolutionary changes to meet the new aspirations and needs of society.
The question is also about accessibility to technology. How many schools in India, Asia, Latin America, Africa, Egypt and Syria could make use of technology for school education? If it has to be used in a successful manner, schools will need a robust internet connection. Infrastructure is paramount to the future of technology in education. Currently 13 percent of the 34 million classrooms globally have an interactive display.
Schools are spending money on technology but fail in empowering teachers. Teachers are simply putting presentations or videos while teaching, everybody in the class room is watching a movie like and the interactive boards are simply used as regular white boards. Teachers in this new environment will become more orchestrators of information than instructors. The time has come to such a pass that every discussion on education ends up in the need to infuse skills to the students like learning skills, literacy skills and life skills. This is because technology has taken the present young students to a peculiar space, away from reality. So it is imperative that education system should provide the necessary skills.
(The author is principal, Habitat School, Ajman, UAE)
