My Philosophy of Teaching with Technology

I've already written about how I think we take technology for granted in this day and age, though I feel it is an integral part of my beliefs about technology in the classroom.  Though it depends on the culture in which one is teaching, it seems that many of our students rely quite a bit on technology, and the face-paced, fun, creative mentality that comes with it can carry over into the classroom in some respects. However, the opposite effect is that when students who are used to technology no longer have it, they can become bored with learning.

Of course, not every teaching situation has opportunities for using much (if any) technology. Indeed, right now the classroom I use for my practicum assignment has no technology for use unless my co-teacher and I bring it in. Teaching in such situations has made me realize especially how much I like using technology in the classroom

In that respect, technology provides wonderful opportunities for both teacher and student. Sure, we know that finding materials is easier for teachers when they can look things up on the internet, but for students, the possibilities are exponentially more exciting. Software and other applications aside, students are exposed to so much input on the internet that they can practice any language skill using this medium. Moreover, the web lends itself nicely to sociocultural and interactionist theory, as these students can communicate with other English speakers and learners, especially with the growth in Web 2.0. In this way, students do not necessarily need to travel if they want to communicate in English.

But like anything that seems too great, there are downfalls to this growth in technology. Though there is all this great input, there is no scaffolding for students. There is also something to be said for actual travel, as it's really only then that a person can truly experience a new culture, which, in my opinion, is an essential part of learning a language. Finally, if technology comes to dictate teaching, is there room for a teacher within a classroom, or is the teacher just now the puppet of technology and the mindset that comes along with it?

Therefore, I believe technology to be a powerful tool, but it should be implemented with limitations in the classroom. Teachers and students can use it to supplement learning and students can use it for fun outside of the classroom, but the teacher should keep in mind that he/she, as well as the students, cannot let it replace true human interaction.