Introduction

Education should be viewed as a means to develop a person’s whole potential and to make them a better human being, and contributors to society. Those who are characterized as thinkers, make change. Knowledge is empowering. It allows us to develop our skills, our confidence, our abilities, and our community and helps us in lifelong growth, in all areas of our lives.

Technology in the classroom has a place. That place can have benefits or disadvantages depending on how it is used. The activities and technology need to be engaging and create an interactive environment. I believe that by making the learning interactive and bringing out the individuality of the students we can help each other to become more successful and reach our goals. Technology is a way to bring the learning to a higher level. We can provide “greater emphasis on skills, particularly knowledge management, and less on memorising content” (Bates, 2019).

Now, if that technology is now used properly, we will see the disadvantages. Students lack of interest, students using their computers and phones to surf the web or in ways not relevant to the class. A lack of interest creates an unlearning and unproductive environment.

When developing a Community of Practice in education I believe it is important to have a individual and common goals. As an educator my goal is to learn about the students and how they can contribute to the discussions. This will also help in reaching my second goal in assisting in developing critical thinking. To reach these goals technology can play a huge part. Utilizing creativity and technology can enhance the learning experience can deepen the students experience and understanding.

 

Bates, T. (2019). Teaching in a Digital Age -Chapter 4: Methods of teaching with an online focus. (2nd ed.). Retrieved from https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/teachinginadigitalagev2/part/chapter-6-models-for-designing-teaching-and-learning/