LESSON 3- THE ROLES OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY IN LEARNING

                 Technology can play a traditional role or in a constructivist way as partners in the learning process. In the traditional way,the learner learns from the technology and the technology serves as a teacher. In other words,the learner learns the content presented by the technology in the same way that the learner learns knowledge presented by the teacher.In the Constructivist way,technology helps the learner build more meaningful personal interpretations of life. It is a learning tool to learn with,not from. It makes the learner gather,think,analyze,synthesize information and construct meaning with what technology presents. It serves as a medium in representing what the learner knows and what he/she is learning.

INSIGHTS AND REACTION:

                 In a traditional way,technology serves as source and presenter of knowledge. Knowledge is embedded in the technology.Example film showing,TV programs or the teaching sequence in programmed instruction. Computers as a productivity tool known for its popularity of word processing,databases,spreadsheets,graphic programs and desktop publishing in 1980's plays a productive role of technology in the classroom. In the mid 90's internet evolves,communications and multimedia have contributed the role of technology in the classroom.
                 Technology serves as tools to support knowledge for representing learners ideas,understandings and beliefs. It serves as information vehicles for exploring knowledge to support learning-by-constructing. It is a social medium to support learning by conversing for collaborating with others.
                 In a constructivist point of view,educational technology serves as learning tools that learners learn with. It engages learners in active,constructive,intentional,authentic and cooperative learning. It is both the technology and a learner interaction. Technology here will not be a mere vehicle for content.
                For me,whether it is traditional or constructivist point of view,it will not only increases students learning,understanding and achievement but also augments motivation to learn,encourages collaborative learning and supports the development of critical thinking and problem-solving-skills if used effectively.
                Therefore,the use of of technology in the classroom enables the teacher to do differentiated instruction considering the differences of students' readiness levels,interests,multiple intelligencies and learning styles. It can help learners become lifelong learners.
                Moreover,Technology serves as the driving vehicle that let students convinced to ride and study the driving process so that it can move,run and filled in.
               However,it says younger teachers are better than the older teachers when it comes to the most recent technology like the computer. The younger teacher was blessed with basic computer courses in their college curriculum. but if older teachers would like to learn about computers,thay have to practice and practice until they learn. It is part of professional development to become a "digital native" and not a "digital immigrant". It is good to become a "netizen" or a "screenager" or a "webinars". It is pitiful to know that older teachers mostly have no skills in computer,unless thay give themselves time in learning about computers. So I think younger teachers are blessed and highly proficient compared to the older teachers.