When I was growing up, a calculator was about as high-tech as it got when it came to school.  I’m not talking about those complex graphic calculators, either – no, these had the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide.  That’s it.

Later on, though, my school got its hands on some computers.  If I remember correctly, there were about eight of them in what they coincidentally titled the “computer room;” a very small, very cold haven of technology.  For about a half-hour each week, we would be brought in to learn about them, but it usually never amounted to anything more than “this is how you turn it on.”  It didn’t integrate with our studies in any way; the computers were just there.

Nowadays, a computer is about as common as a pencil.  Everyone either has one or can access one with incredible ease, and they’re being infused with classrooms in order to improve the learning environment.  And it’s not just computers, it’s technology in general, with cell phones and even video games being used in the classroom to some extent.

For instance, in Japan the Nintendo DS is used as a teaching tool and even during test taking.  And some teachers are taking advantage of the popularity of mobile phones by having students calculate, take photos/videos, and more to complement various projects.  But is it enough to focus solely on technology?  Should the “classic” learning environment die out or is there a way to join them together to create an ideal classroom experience?

I’m sure most people would agree that computers, phones, and even video games have their advantages and can be used in innovative ways to engage students.  Students should be trained to take advantage of their surrounding tools.  A concern of mine and others, though, is that some people will think that technology is all that’s needed, when in reality it’s only a tool, like a calculator or pencil.  Students and teachers need to understand how to use these tools in conjunction with classic learning/teaching methods, not rely on them to do everything.

Just as technology can unite with classic teaching methods, it can also complement life skills.  Learning how to effectively communicate, make decisions, study, and work as a team is equally as important as learning how to take advantage of new technologies.  After all, learning starts with these basic skills.  A student needs to learn how to effectively make decisions, as computers, cell phones, and other gadgets can’t duplicate that, only assist with it.  However, as each classroom becomes more and more technologically advanced, the importance of these new resources cannot be downplayed.  Both are equally important, and it is essential that students learn basic life skills in addition to how to use technology, and vice versa.

Thanks for reading!

-Vincenzo Capone