Technology is a widely used and explored term. Does it really have a meaning though? Let’s find out.
According to Wikipedia, Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. Science students will be able to put all these together in their heads to make perfect sense. I must confess, it sounded a bit too much for me but as I delved into it, what amazing things I discovered.
I would like to include my very own definition if I may, technology is the application of scientific knowledge to bring about seamless productivity.
In retrospect, the Covid 19 lockdown which affected the entire world seemed like a downside for everyone but I think it birthed the popularity of Technology. Many teachers lost their jobs because they weren’t very Tech Savvy to take on ‘Online Teaching’. Most times, the computer or Intro technology classes are always taken by Specialist teachers and so the risk of other teachers lagging behind in that area is inevitable. You will also agree with me that ‘Coding’ and ‘Engineering for kids’ classes have become highly accepted.
Technology has positively changed the running systems for some schools. Google classroom/meet, Class Dojo, Education city, seesaw amongst others are all Tech tools that have made teaching, learning, communication and assessment less demanding. Apparently, some of these tools have been in existence for quite some time but were not utilised because we probably didn’t see the need for them. We as educators are quite used to the more stressful way, so we send handwritten notes to parents via communication books; homework is also written in the notebooks and the children are pros at copying from the board.
Technology always provides an easy and stress-free way. Communication, homework and assessments can be done via Class Dojo, Google classroom or any other education app. Children can have a variety of pictures and ideas shown to them from the internet via an Interactive white board, a Desktop computer or Laptop. Let us give our children a better learning experience and broaden their imagination and creativity through educational media, virtual interactive learning games and exposure to ICT skills.
One might think ‘’This is for private schools only’’, but it is intended for private and public schools alike. Some private schools still need exposure to the benefits of technology while others are on the right track. However, we urge the Federal Ministry of Education to ensure that all children get the same quality of education especially at the public-school levels. The Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) lays emphasis on quality education and Technology is definitely embedded in that.
The world is a global village and all parts of the world are brought together by Technology through the internet and other electronic communication interconnections. Technology is the future as we often hear, and the future must be embraced with enthusiasm.
“Technology will never replace great Teachers, but in the hands of great teachers, it’s transformational”
George Couros, author of “The Innovator’s Mindset”.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.