The new primary curriculum or KSSR puts a great emphasis on the use of technology in the teaching and learning process. The rationale for this is that we need our students to be technology savvy to be able to not just stand abreast but to move ahead in a highly competitive world.
The use of technology improves learning. When used correctly, it improves the speed of learning and increases the scope of learning. It can also increase the amount of time spent learning as it supports twenty-four hours of learning everyday.
On the part of the learner, the use technology introduces the learner to new skills. Technology is constantly evolving and learners need to know how to use these materials. There was a day in the past when the pen was seen a technological marvel and today computers, smart phones and e-‘just about everything’ have taken over the world by storm. Our children have to know and be confident in using these items to benefit from them. The world is constantly on the move and our children have to be taught to embrace positive changes in the world around them.
The use of technology is good in the process of learning as it increases student’s involvement and engagement. When we look at the computer and the Internet we can see the benefits at once.
- Information is lateral and vertical
Say for example, when a teacher uses an online text on building airplanes to teach the English Language, a student who is interested in building airplanes will be able to use this text as a platform to seek more information on this topic. It provides the scope for students to pursue their interests or be introduced to many new areas that they may have an interest for.
- Learning is interactive
Learners get instant feedback of their understanding on a particular subject. When a learner keys in a wrong answer, the learning portal will immediately point this out and the learner has to try again. A right answer will move him/her to the next level. This interactive feature is very effective in learning, as mistakes are instantly corrected. Furthermore, the ‘game like’ features in these portals are able to capture the learner’s attention for a longer period. The use of sound and colour and the ability to move from level to level each time the learner is able to do the given task correctly, makes learning fun and effective. Technology is often successful in removing boredom from the teaching-learning process. Students will be motivated to sit for longer periods and learn while having fun. This in turn accelerates the learning process.
- Learning at your own pace
Our children are all different. Their family background, the social economic status, their previous learnt knowledge and of course, the genetic factors will all affect how quickly the absorb new information. With the use of technology, learners will move from stage to stage at his/her own pace. Those who are able to grasp the content quickly will be able to move on to other things while those who are slower will move at their own pace. Let us also not forget, that children generally are better in some areas and weaker in others and this will allow a more comfortable learning platform.
- Weaker students can have more teacher time
Technology encourages independent learning and the teacher will be able to focus on some learners more than others. Some learners, depending on the many factors mentioned above, still need their teacher to hold their hands and show them how it is done. They need to hear their teacher’s voice and a ‘one to one human interaction’ to help them understand content. Sometimes, pair work can be conducted, where peer teaching is encouraged. It is a fact that one of the best ways to learn is to teach. By getting students who understand the content to guide the weaker once, both learners benefit and a greater sense of accomplishment is achieved.
- Students become independent learners
Technology allows students to taught how to seek and validate information. Most lessons that are linked with technology require students to do research independently and present their work. This often takes place in the form of independent presentation or group presentation. Students learn to look for information, evaluate the information, present and give their opinions on the given topic. On a higher order scale of learning, this leads to reasoning and decision-making skills that are life skills that each individual needs to have.
Parent’s Role
Based on the above, parents should understand that technology is something that is good and can enhance their children’s learning and performance in school and in life. Of course, on the flip side, the use of technology, meaning computers, without any supervision can be damaging for the child’s health and learning process. Eventually, it all comes down to the parents. You have to have the knowledge on how to make the most of what you have, how to supervise, how to motivate and how to give your kids the confidence to use these instruments for their benefit.
This article was written by Madam Kalai Lingam. Madam Kalai has 27 years of teaching experience in government secondary school. She opted for early retirement in 2013 to pursue her love of writing, and is currently writing a book. Madam Kalai is well versed in the Malaysian Education system, having been a senior English teacher and school administrator for many years.