Technology can be a powerful teaching tool for our children:
- We have seen the power of Minecraft to teach complex subjects like Quantum Mechanics, Organic Chemistry, Electronics, and Rube Goldberg Machines.
- We can use technology to tailor education to the individual student using programs like Khan Academy.
- We can use technology to flip classrooms to improve student learning and understanding.
- We can use technology to gamefy education and improve learning outcomes.
- We have seen how playing video games can even make children smarter!
- There are amazingly cool apps that breathe life into old subjects:
- Touch Press Apps
- Bobo Explores Light – Properties of Light
- Junior Astronaut – Learning about Space
- Toca Lab – Elements of the Periodic Table
- DragonBox Math – Math through Play
- ChemCaper – Chemistry through Play
But, as with all things in life, there must be balance because too much of a good thing can still be bad. We need to find the balance of technology in education and make sure that we establish limits to our children’s use of technology. Just as there are good things about technology, we also need to be aware of the potential pitfalls:
Just as we monitor the movies and books that our children are allowed to watch or read, we must also monitor the content of the media they can access on the Internet and through their smart devices. Technology is an ongoing topic we must continue to discuss with out children and educate ourselves on. So here’s a terrific infographic on “Bad Digital Behaviour” from Netnanny that can help us understand more about the dark side of social media. Admittedly, the stats are from the US, but I do believe they can be helpful for all parents to be aware of.
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