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The main issue in implementing technology in schools is not about the fund or the resource instead, it is more towards ensuring the effectiveness of the implementation. For instance, in a school that I went, (Sekolah Kebangsaan Permatang Buloh) the computer lab was in perfect condition, complete with internet connection. But, I could hardly see pupils going in and out of the lab. It seems that they only go there for their Computer Skills subject and not for others. The main purpose of the implementation of computer-based learning is not only to enhance pupils’ computer skills but also to improve their understanding in the other subjects.
How can computer-based learning improve pupils’ learning? This happens as computer promotes the four main characteristics of children learning ; 1) active engagement, 2) participation in groups, 3) frequent interaction and feedback, and 4) connections to the real world context.
The purpose of learning is not only for pupils to gain knowledge but also to enable them to apply the knowledge gained. This shows that pupils’ active engagement in learning is vital. Spoon-feeding and typical lectures do not bring out the best in pupils as they may have various learning styles. For instance, visual pupils may find it hard to digest the information that the teacher explained orally and vice versa. Being passive listeners also disable pupils from discovering and constructing knowledge independently thus, promoting route-learners. Pupils may also feel bored for not getting involved with their own learning thus, killing their interests and motivation. With technology, pupils have better chance to discover their own knowledge, apply their understandings and improve in their learning. This is in line with the constructivism theory whereby pupils construct their own understanding. Pupils will learn to be responsible of their own learning. Technologies also provide opportunities for pupils to improve their higher order skills as they provide various problem solving activities, useful information and so on. It also helps learning to be much faster and easier thus, enabling pupils to grasp the concepts better.
Based on the interactionist theories like Vygotsky and Piaget, interaction (social involvement) is vital in children’s learning. Many critics have stated that activities like drilling and online individual exercises hinder these interactions from happening. But, if we look at other perspectives, computer, especially the use of internet, allow children to mix in a virtual society. The use of blogging, for instance, allows pupils to express their feeling while others can provide feedback and share their ideas about certain topic. Group discussion help pupils to clear up misconception and help them to understand topics taught better as they have each other to help them. With the help of technology, this group discussion is made more possible as pupils do not necessarily be there physically as they can conduct the discussion online by chatting, online forum and so on.
Gattegno, founder of ‘The Silent Way’ method mentioned that errors are essential in learning process. It allows pupils to try out their ideas, gain feedback on it and improve their understanding. The use of computer-based learning allows this thing to happen in three major ways as mentioned in the article. In short, computers assist teachers to give better attention towards their pupils. With the help of computers, lessons are not restricted to school hours and they can consult their teachers for feedback at any time. Immediate feedback is also vital so that pupils will not be drilled with incorrect concepts. At times, pupils may even forget about their responses when they finally receive the feedback. This hinder learning from occurring and in the end, the pupils may commit the same mistake over and over again.
As mentioned earlier, the ability to apply their knowledge is vital in the process of learning. Yet, pupils are not given the chance to do so due to the limitation of the traditional method. Here, the use of technology allows pupils to contribute to the real world. Programs like GLOBE enable pupils to aid in real scientific research. It is essential for pupils to know that their effort is worth and acknowledged. This shall motivate them to contribute more thus, promoting their learning.
The use of technology allows pupils to reach out to new information, teachers and friends. This will allow pupils to have a broader perspective on their learning as they can gain more knowledge and share their ideas with those who have the same academic interest as they do. For instance, with the existent of ‘Pendeta Webpac’, students from other universities can also browse the collection of books from University of Malaya. Computer application allows students to try things that they may not be able to do before. For instance, frog dissecting. Though it seems dangerous, children of any age can try this activity once they have the courseware. This will not only increase their interest but also improve their understanding.
There are various applications in computer-based learning. However, it is wise to choose the ones that fit the subject and the students’ style of learning the best to achieve the most excellent result. For instance, the image of sound wave is hardly visible in human eyes. It may be shown in books but pupils may find it hard to comprehend the 2D images. This is where 3D simulations in computer applications come in handy. Being able to see clearly the recreation of these concept help pupils to understand them better as they can easily visualize the idea taught. This is vital since in science, there are many concepts that are difficult to be digested without any visual aids and to make it worst, those concepts are not visible. The same goes with other subjects. The selection of application should consider its benefit to the students and not just based on the teachers’ preference or so on.
Most teachers will only realize about the effectiveness of technology and be motivated to use it in their classes once they master it themselves. This point is important since senior teachers seem to be more comfortable and secured with the old, traditional way of teaching. The lack of training to these reluctant teachers makes their conditions worse, whereby they would have the perception that the use of computer-based learning would only distract their students and discourage their learning.
Teachers use the traditional method of teaching since they seem to be the most successful way to finish the curriculum, which consists of basic knowledge and skills. However, as time goes by, the society’s demand is getting higher and they require students to acquire higher order of skills. Thus, the reformation of curriculum is vital to fulfil the society’s need and at the same time, the implementation of technology will be more effective as it is targeted to boost higher level skills. This means that technology and curriculum must work hand in hand to produce better workers and generation.
As mentioned earlier, schools’ curriculum are emphasized more towards basic skills. Thus, this will influence the assessments and evaluations conducted by the schools. Though students may have developed higher order of skills, it would be useless if they do not have the chance to apply their knowledge in these assessments hence, making all their efforts in computer-based learning seems worthless. This will demotivate the students in their studies. So, schools should consider the major reformation of their assessment and evaluation to allow their pupils to perform at their best and at the same time, promote and increase the effectiveness of the use of computers in learning.
Several factors that help to ensure the effectiveness of the use of technology in schools were identified. Researchers also managed to point out the factors that effects school computer use. Now that all key factors have been discovered, schools should be able to ‘turn to a new leaf’ and create an environment that can promote computer-based learning. However, schools and the administration must be able to make a huge reformation in many aspects to ensure the effectiveness of this implementation. It cannot be denied that some schools are ready for these changes while others may take some time. Yet, if they have the cooperation of all stake holders, this reformation should not be a huge problem.
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