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THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION IN EDUCATION

Sheena Greggs

Trident University International

EDU501 History and Policy in U.S. Education (2023FEB27FT-1)

Module 4 Case

Dr. Nicole Frederick

March 2023
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Introduction

The educational system is just one area where the development of digital technology has

had a discernible impact on contemporary life. The introduction of digital tools such as personal

computers, smartphones, and other digital resources has significantly altered the educational

system for both students and teachers. This article will examine the concept of "digital natives"

and how the digital transformation has affected the educational system in the United States,

focusing on how technology has altered classroom instruction.

It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of incorporating various forms of modern

technology into the learning process. As more tools become available, the most effective

deployment of emerging technologies by educators will continue to evolve. The undergraduate

population of today is more concentrated on the future than any other cohort in history. In this

session, we will discuss how the pervasive use of technology in elementary, secondary, and

postsecondary institutions has resulted in the emergence of new positions for educators working

at these levels of education. In addition to this topic, we will discuss the various strategies

modern educators use to integrate various forms of technology into the classroom.

The Digital Native

People who have always had access to a computer, smartphone, or other technological

device are referred to as "digital natives," and the term "digital native" is used to describe these

individuals. The term "digital native" refers to those who have spent their entire lives using

computers and other technological devices with ease, (Prensky, 2001). Those who are exposed to

cutting-edge technology at an early age and receive a lead start in life are more likely to attain

their objectives. This demographic must be accounted for in any study that investigates the

impact digital tools are having on the United States' educational system.
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The Advantages of Using Modern Classroom Equipment

It is impossible to overstate the disruption caused by technology in the classroom. In today's

classrooms, the implementation of interactive whiteboards, app development, and other digital

tools is extremely beneficial. As a result of the ubiquitous availability of digital devices, students

now have greater flexibility in terms of when, where, and how they can study. Here are a few

examples of how technological advancements have altered traditional methods of educational

delivery.

Schools have reaped substantial benefits from the presentation and administration of

digital content ever since the invention of the interactive blackboard. It can be used to facilitate

student conversations, coordinate classroom initiatives involving student groups, and spark

vibrant classroom discussions.

Internet users who prefer independent study will find an abundance of information on a

wide range of topics and subjects, making it an invaluable resource. Students who have access to

the Internet have access to a wealth of information.

Due to the availability of online resources, students can now better adapt their studies to

their individual needs and preferred modalities of learning. The data collected by flexible

learning systems allows for the delivery of individualized instruction.

As a result of recent advancements in information technology, students are now able to

collaborate on projects while contributing their own unique perspectives. Students can use online

conversation groups and message forums, for instance, to discuss class-related topics, trade

papers, and collaborate on group projects.

A growing number of students now have the option to pursue their education at a more

convenient location, thanks to technological advancements. As a direct result of the proliferation

of online learning opportunities, students now have more options and flexibility regarding the

manner and location in which they pursue further education.

The Responses of the Instructors

Teachers should not deviate from a tried-and-true method of instruction preparation and

delivery just because they are incorporating new technology into their lessons. While the

introduction of new technologies can result in an increase in the number of possibilities for

learning, doing so frequently necessitates the acquisition of new knowledge. Teachers need to be

acquainted with the use of instructional software, internet resources, and audiovisual tools in

order to develop interesting and compelling lessons for their students. The ability to use

technology in ways that engage students of various ages, cultural backgrounds, and learning

methods is an essential ability for educators to possess.

In addition, educators can use technology to better observe their students' development

and to give more accurate assessments of their students' level of knowledge. Utilizing digital

resources allows for the tracking of students' development as well as the provision of immediate

feedback. This can assist educators in determining which students require additional assistance

and how to best provide it to them.

Implications for the Student Body

The development of new technologies is having an obvious and direct influence on the

ways in which today's youth are educated and prepared for the future. Students in today's society

rely extensively on digital resources in order to broaden their perspectives, increase the breadth

and depth of their knowledge, and hone the skills that will serve them well on the work.

Students, for instance, are networking with one another through social media, coordinating on

group projects, and showcasing their completed works in digital portfolios.

In addition, developments in technology are creating new avenues through which

students can acquire the skills necessary for success in the 21st century and learn how to develop

those abilities. For instance, online learning systems offer a versatile and individualized

education that can be adapted to meet the requirements of students who prefer different learning

methods and different rates of progression in their coursework. Students can also use the

resources available online to refine their skills in rational reasoning, innovative thinking, and

problem-solving, all of which are in high demand in today's workforce.

The Integration of Technology into the Classroom

At the moment, a great number of educators are experimenting with novel methods for

making use of technology in the classroom. The following are some instances to illustrate this

point:

In many contemporary educational institutions, conventional chalkboards have been

phased out and substituted by interactive whiteboards as the primary instrument for displaying

and manipulating multimedia content on a large screen.

The tools that are accessible to instructors today allow them to design interactive lessons,

examinations, and evaluations that give students instant feedback on their performance.

The internet is rife with supplemental educational resources that can be used in

conjunction with classroom instruction. Teachers can now quickly and easily obtain a wide

variety of resources, such as videos, articles, and other materials that are all accessible online.

These days, many educational institutions, including universities and colleges, provide

students all over the globe with the opportunity to earn a degree by taking classes completely

online.
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Educators can more easily communicate with their students and distribute relevant

resources by utilizing social media.

Conclusion

The educational system in the United States has been significantly impacted by the

transition to digital formats. Individuals who view their computer as their primary residence and

spend the majority of their time online are more likely to feel comfortable using digital tools in

the classroom. The use of technological tools in the classroom, such as interactive whiteboards,

internet resources, one-on-one instruction, group activities, and virtual field expeditions, has

altered the previously employed conventional methods in educational settings. It will be

fascinating to observe the impact and changes brought about by new technologies in the United

States' educational system.

References

National Education Association. (2019). Integrating Technology in the Classroom. Retrieved

from https://www.nea.org/resources/integrating-technology-classroom

Robinson, C. (2019). How technology is changing education. Retrieved from

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/08/how-technology-is-changing-education
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References