OPEN MINDS
It’s time students took ownership of learning
Smart phones, smart gadgets and devices have become our lifeline. Our mornings start by looking at the phone for checking the news, messages, weather updates and social apps. The difference is vast when compared to the lifestyle, say a decade ago. But there is no denying the fact that technology has made learning easier.
Today’s generation is surely an advanced generation. Computer skills and language labs are compulsorily introduced in schools right from grade 1, helping the young ones master the technology. But an overdose of social median can bring negative results.
Online games are sometimes disastrous especially when children get addicted to them without parental knowledge. At the same time, there are amazing innovations that can
really do wonders to our lives. Robotics is one such innovation providing entertainment and education at the same time. Recently, a student made a robot to help keep the oceans clean. Now, isn’t it wonderful to create something when so young?
Technology is changing the way students learn and also the way teachers teach! And this is great news. Technology is everywhere, and putting this reality to the benefit of education is a must. Mobile devices that distract students should be put to better use by improving participation and interaction. Schools should introduce learning tools through gaming to enhance students’ potential. Quizzes should be held in classrooms for making learning fun.
Times are changing and with it come changes in the mode of education. There are so many apps out there that we are spoiled for choice. Apps now allow children to stay at home and study and become part of a worldwide classroom. It gives them the opportunity to interact globally.
It is important to make learning more engaging. Because when students are engaged and they are interested, learning takes place. Gaming apps help here. Gaming encourages independent learning and ownership of learning. It reinforces the fact that education is an interdependent process; it’s not simply knowledge passed from teachers to students. But remember, technology is only a tool — it is the teachers’ duty and the students’ responsibility to use modern technology in a responsible and productive way.