Techdigitalweb – The Covid-19 pandemic has brought instructional technology to prominence. Instructional technology is not a new term. You probably take advantage of it every day in the classroom. But the rise of virtual and distance learning has brought more awareness to this technology and how to incorporate it to help with learning activities. In today’s modern era, where most of our life has moved to the virtual realm, instructional technology is an essential part of our daily activities.
What Is Instructional Technology
Instructional technology is the practice of using technology in education. It also encompasses developing, designing, and evaluating the tools used in learning activities. Instructional technology is the result of the rapid development in general technology. Several decades ago, classes started utilizing a projector to show learning materials to the students. Today, we have seen schools incorporate interactive whiteboards, iPads, and smartphones to support learning activities.
The primary purpose of instructional technology is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of learning. The technology is developed and designed according to the needs of students and educators. Instructional technology is more than to support distance learning. When the pandemic is over, the technology can still be used to make offline class activities more enjoyable.
The Examples of Instructional Technology
The term instructional technology might not be familiar to some people, but it is very close to us. You also probably have used the technology on a daily basis, not just in a class setting. Here are some examples of instructional technology that have been widely incorporated in education
1. Interactive Whiteboard
Traditional whiteboards and a marker are things of the past. Modern classrooms have used interactive whiteboard that makes teaching and learning more fun. An interactive whiteboard is a combination of a whiteboard and a computer screen. Teachers can put shapes, charts, and texts on the board conveniently. Since it is basically a computer screen, you also can use it to browse the internet or display PowerPoint presentations. One of the most popular interactive whiteboard applications is Google Jamboard.
2. Video Meeting Application
Video meeting application is not only used in offices or to meet clients. Since the pandemic started and schools were closed, classes were moved online, and up to this day, schools all around the world rely on video meeting applications to ensure the continuance of learning activities. Teleconference application allows teachers and students to meet virtually. The features are enough to conduct teaching and learning activities, and to some extent, it is even better than traditional classroom activities.
3. Cloud Apps
Nobody is a stranger to cloud applications. It is usually used to store photos or videos to save storage on our phones and computer. But cloud apps are also widely used in classroom activities. When it comes to learning, cloud apps are not only used as storage but also as a place to collaborate. Teachers can take advantage of cloud applications such as Google Docs to encourage teamwork and collaboration among the students.
Benefits of Instructional Technology
Every educational institution needs to incorporate technology in its activities. Instructional technology in school is not only used to assist learning during the pandemic but also because it has so many great benefits. Here are some advantages of incorporating technology in education.
1. Collaborative Learning
Collaboration is one of the essential skills to have in the 21st century. This is why teachers always arrange group projects in school. Technologies help taking collaborative learning to the next level. Students can do group projects using video conferencing platforms and cloud applications. These applications allow students to share notes and discuss ideas even without meeting in person. The flexibility of the apps offers more time and room to work together and complete the project.
2. Improve Engagement and Develop Various Learning Styles
Sometimes learning activities can be boring because it is difficult for the teachers to engage the students in a traditional classroom setting. By taking advantage of instructional technology, you have all the resources on the internet in the palm of your hands. Consequently, teachers have plenty of room to develop and try new learning styles.
Gamification is the new teaching and learning method that the students love. When the students do something they like, they will be more likely to pay attention. Teachers can use games they find on the internet or develop their own games using simple applications such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Photoshop.
3. Practice Communication and Presentation Skill
Communication is another 21st-century skill that every student must master. The teachers can arrange activities using a video conference platform and let students do a presentation. Doing a virtual presentation could be less intimidating, so it is an excellent place for students to practice their presentation and communication skills.
Doing a presentation is more than just speaking in front of many people. Students also have to prepare interesting material to keep the audience engaged. It allows the students to explore various other applications and online resources to help them prepare a precise and excellent presentation. This activity will not only improve their communication skill but also boost their creativity and critical thinking skill.
4. Prepares Student for the Competitive Future
We are heading into an era where technology will be the most critical aspect of our life. Those who master technology will be the master of their own life. Incorporating instructional technology in the classroom is a great way to prepare students for the competitive future.
Teachers must give a clear example of how to use technology to improve skills. Consequently, teachers must be able to adapt to the new development of technology. Designing a technology used in a classroom setting is not easy. This is why many teachers decide to take an instructional technology degree to help in their work as an educator.
The era has changed and it is impossible not to use technology in education. Teachers, students, parents, and every stakeholder in the education sector must have enough knowledge about instructional technology and how to incorporate it to improve learning activities.
