Learning Through Technology

Learning Through Technology Technology is something that has greatly progressed in a matter of a decade or so, allowing students to use it as a source of education. The recent technological advances in society supply students with many tools such as internet, cell phones, Ipods, computers, and laptops, etc. Today millions of students depend on some sort of technological source as a way to study. Technology has improved student learning because it increases test scores by providing quick access to information and serves as a virtual tutor. For the vast majority of the younger generation, technology is a basic necessity of life. From cell phones to Ipods to computers and internet, technology has always been a part of their life. Modern day technology has permitted many schools to integrate technology into the classroom. In fact, a survey completed by Pew Internet & American Life Project shows that 21 million youth from age twelve to seventeen use the internet and 78% of those 21 million use the internet at school (Critical Issue). Integration of technology in the classroom helps the student’s academic learning, thus improving test scores. Because students have access to technology in the classroom, they are more willing to complete their work because it can serve as a tutor and gove individualized instruction for all types of learners. Students also have quick access information all over the world when technology is of essence in the classroom. “In an eight-year longitudinal study of SAT-I performance at New Hampshire’s Brewster Academy, students participating in the technology-integrated school-reform efforts demonstrated average increases in 94 points in combined SAT I performance over students who participated in the traditional school experience” (Burchett 47). When technology was present, the students were able to use the sources available to improve their learning, later showing up in their SAT I scores. Like this study shows, most students will show

Cited: “3 Benefits of Educational Technology in the Classroom.” Readinghorizons.com 6 July 2011. Web. 14 April 2011. <http://www.readinghorizons.com/blog/post/2010/06/07/3-Benefits- of-Technology-based-Education.aspx> Burchett, Richard, Cradler, John; Freeman, Molly; McNabb, Mary. “How Does Technology Influence Student Learning.” ou.edu. International Society for Technology in Education. May 2002. 14 April 2011. <http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/08/> “Critical Issue: Using Technology to Improve Student Achievement.” Ncrel.org. North Central Regional Educational Library, 2005. Web. 14 April, 2011.