Abstract
This
personal philosophy paper explains the integration of technology in education,
emphasizing its role in enhancing student learning and preparing them for a
digitally-driven world. Exploring the traditional teacher-centered instruction
to collaborative, technology-enhanced learning environments and the
responsibility one has when integrating technology into their lesson plans. Educators
have a professional responsibility to incorporate digital tools, such as Google
Drive, to tailor lesson plans and develop students' digital literacy, critical
thinking, and adaptability skills. Additionally, this philosophy emphasizes the
importance of guiding students to seek the Holy Spirit alongside technological
advancements, discouraging the sole reliance of artificial intelligence.
Keywords: technology in education,
digital literacy, collaborative learning, spiritual discernment, critical
thinking
My Personal Philosophy: Technology in Education
Technology is now a permanent staple in the United States education
system. Whether it is elementary school or post-graduate education, technology
is found at the base of the teaching plan. Technology’s integration not only
enhances student learning but also aligns with educators' obligations to
prepare students for a digitally-driven world. Technology was the catalyst for
transforming traditional educational methodologies. The learning experience has
changed indefinitely, shifting from the dynamic of teacher-focused instruction
to collaborative learning environments. This shift promotes engagement through
interactive content, and prepares students for the demands of higher learning. With
proper incorporation of digital tools such as Google Drive, educators can
tailor their lesson plans to individual learning styles and needs of students.
Educators hold a professional responsibility
to integrate technology into their teaching practices to prepare students for
adulthood. This obligation is the result of the requirement the modern
workforce has for employees to have basic digital literacy, critical thinking,
and adaptability. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported
that during the 2019–2020 school year, a significant percentage of public
schools utilized educational technology to support instruction, highlighting
its role in modern pedagogy (Lewis &
Gary, 2021). Trends
such as this led the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Educational
Technology to emphasizes the importance of integrating technology to support
innovative teaching and learning practices across the nation's education
systems (Office of
Educational Technology, 2017).
When school districts incorporate technology
into the curriculum, teachers can enhance instructional methods, facilitate
collaborative learning, and better prepare students for future academic and
careers after high school. However if
educators do not properly utilize technology with the development of students
in mind, excessive dependence can diminish critical thinking and
problem-solving abilities.
As an educator, I recognize the necessity to integrate
technology into my curriculum to equip students for higher education and the
evolving workforce. However, my paramount responsibility is to "train up a
child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from
it" (Proverbs 22:6, ESV). In a time where technological advancements and
social media are pervasive, adolescents may be inclined to seek guidance from
peers or artificial intelligence (AI). It is essential to stand firm and teach students
that while AI can be a valuable tool, it is not God. As Proverbs 3:5–6 advises,
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths
straight". The Word of God tells us the importance of relying on spiritual
discernment over solely human or technological counsel. I want my students to
understand that it is ok and more pleasing to the Lord to come to Him
frustrated and confused about circumstance, than it is to form solutions of
your own will. By imparting that principle within the lesson plans with
technology, students can become "wise as serpents" (Matthew 10:16,
KJV), prepared to navigate the complexities of the world. They will become
familiar of the tactics and tricks of the enemy, and will be able to rebuke and
resist sin immediately upon detection. Ultimately, they should "not
conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of
[their] mind[s]" (Romans 12:2 NIV).
When
I become a teacher, I will emphasize the use of technology as a research tool
while guiding students to cross-reference digital information with reliable
print sources such as books, journals, or articles. This practice cultivates
critical thinking and instills a habit of verifying information. Practical
application of this approach outside of the classroom is, confirming a
scripture mentioned in a TikTok video by consulting the Holy Bible. Research
indicates that reading printed texts enhances comprehension and recall more
effectively than digital formats, highlighting the importance of integrating
both mediums in education (Delgado et al., 2018). By encouraging students to
validate digital content with authoritative print sources, I aim to develop their
discernment skills when it comes to technology. This balanced approach not only
fosters academic rigor but also aligns with the principle of seeking truth by
diligently studying and verifying resources.
References
Delgado, P., Vargas, C., Ackerman, R., &
Salmeron, L. (2018). Don't Throw Away Your Printed Books: A Meta-Analysis on
the Effects of Reading Media on Reading Comprehension. Educational
Research Review, pp. 23-38.
English Standard Version Bible. (n.d.). Crossway.
King James Bible. (n.d.). Tyndale House Publishers.
Lewis, L., & Gary, L. (2021). Use of
Educational Technology for Instruction in Public Schools: 2019-20.
Washington D.C.: National Center for Education Statistics.
New International Version Bible. (n.d.). Zondervan.
Office of Educational Technology. (2017). Reimagining
the Role of Technology in Education: 2017 National Education Technology Plan
Update. Washington D.C.: U.S. Department of Education.
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