Technology, according to the Oxford online dictionary, “is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry.” It is said to have first appeared in the English language in the 17th century when it was used to describe a discussion of the applied arts only.
Gradually, those “arts” themselves came to be the object of the designation. The term technology is the combination of the Greek word, “Techne” and “Logos” – Techne means “arts, craft” while Logos means “word, speech.”
Around the early 20th century, technology embraced a growing range of means, processes, and ideas in addition to tools and machines. The information age (also known as the computer age, digital age, or new media age), a historical period that began in the mid – 20th century, witnessed a rapid epochal shift from a traditional industry established by the industrial revolution to an economy primarily based upon information technology that gave rise to modern technology.
Nikola Tesla is said to be the founder of modern technology. The difference between modern technology and when the word was first used, is that it is being applied to almost every facet of human endeavor.
So, from online shopping to virtual meetings and distance learning, modern technology has replaced traveling to different places which consumed time.
Modern Technology And Education
Education is the transmission of skills, values, morals, attitudes, and knowledge to bring about positive change in the learner’s behavior. Technology in education is the use of technological tools to enhance or facilitate effective teaching and learning.
Imagine a situation where a teacher is undergoing pedagogical stress, technology can support structured lesson plans or text-based nudges to build this capacity. However, despite the continuous increase in the use of modern technology in education, traditional classroom teaching may, for the time being, still be prevalent.
But, how exactly has modern technology been applied in education so far? Truth is, every process of education has at least one form of modern technology that has replaced the manual method from admissions to teaching, examination, assessment, and even for extracurricular activities.
Therefore, from slideshow presentations with multimedia to keeping class schedules online with applications like google calendar, social media hits, and trends, virtual social groups like WhatsApp platforms, Telegram groups or channels, etc.
Also, gamification of tasks and concepts with applications like Mavis Beacon teaches typing among others all fall into the use of modern technology in education.
Given the way our lives now revolve around technology, its application in education has made access to, retention, and more storage of information. Also, information is better presented, teaching becomes interactive, and knowledge sharing is more interesting.
Clearly, from the above, one can say technological advancements have made education more accommodating, which has led to a boost in creativity. Teachers can, with cloud-based computing, monitor children’s progress without overwhelming them. The students can have full access to all learning materials and determine their own pace. This leads to a boost in performance, especially where the tech tools used are geared towards self-expression.
Younger generations are now leaning more towards technology at a faster pace than governments and the schools they find themselves in. Inculcating technology in pedagogical and other educational processes better equips the children for a tech-driven future. It is also clear that conversations about lifestyles are now moving away from papers and voluminous physical writing devices. Technology has become more motivating for most youngsters, especially as it simplifies access to information for both teachers and learners.
Above all, education cannot be achieved if there is no communication. Technology has helped bridge the communication gaps. For instance, a teacher can engage in pedagogical processes with regular students and those with special needs all at once, thereby reducing cost and the need to travel lengthy distances for special schools.
Indeed, technology has played a very crucial role in education. Many students are now relying on technology for their academic needs. I strongly recommend that future studies should continue to monitor students’ usage and attitudes towards technology. Technological facilities also need to be provided for students who lack them in their schools as the world goes increasingly digital.
Janet Edet is an IT student from the University of Calabar with CrossRiverWatch.
NB: Opinions expressed in this article are strictly attributable to the author, Janet Edet, and do not represent the opinion of CrossRiverWatch or any other organization the author works for/with.
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