At Tesla, the integration of technology in education refers to the use of technology to enhance the student learning experience. The implementation of technology also creates pathways for differentiated instruction to meet the unique needs of students as individual learners within a broader classroom climate.
Technology integration is the enhancement of traditional instructional practices by using digital tools to allow students to access, acquire, organize, and communicate information. In addition, technology provides multiple platforms for students to develop communication, collaboration, creative, and critical thinking skills inherent to the 21st century.
Students are growing up in a digital world so in order to make learning relevant and meaningful, they need to engage in experiences that model a real-life environment. At Tesla School, teachers also act as guides and mentors students for how to properly access and utilize the infinite amount of information available.
Mr. Tim Vanderpool – Director of Studies at Tesla Education shared: “It’s very difficult to balance the use of technology, and their boundaries are very fragile if children use it in an uncontrolled way at home, but technology in education is essential. Our goal is to give students the skills they need to succeed in the future, and technology will evolve even more over time. It is important that the entire community of teachers, students and parents understand how and why technology should be used in education.”
Technology and interactive multimedia are more conducive to project-based learning and students are more engaged in their learning and can become creators and critics instead of just users.
Today’s students using technology, require 21st century skills:
– Personal and social responsibility
– Planning, critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity
– Strong communication skills, both for interpersonal and presentation needs
– Cross-cultural understanding
– Visualizing and decision making
– Knowing how and when to use technology and choosing the most appropriate tool for the task
Technology’s place in education is continually growing and it is important that all members of the learning community embrace it with care and moderation. Parents often find it difficult for their children to use technology moderately. That’s why it’s important that we make informed decisions about how and when children use technology in today’s digital age.