Technology In The Classroom: A Great Balancing Act

In every arena of life we have some balancing to do, and technology in education is no exception.  Incorporating technology into the classroom can be very beneficial for learning; however, if a teacher relies too much on technology and loses personal connection with students, everyone suffers: the teacher misses out on the joy of teaching, the class as a whole misses out on meaningful discussions and collaborative learning, and the individual students miss out on the motivation and support that a teacher can provide.  

As I was thinking about balancing technology and face-to-face interaction, Dr. Seuss' rhyme slipped right into my mind :) 

So, I decided to write my own little rhyme to help with our balancing act as instructors. It's just a simple little poem to sum up how we should strive to incorporate both technology and personal interaction in our classroom.

Teacher & Technology 

Technology is a lot of fun.

It can also help you get things done.

Teachers should use it in their room,

But technology alone won't help kids bloom.

Just as flowers need both water and sun,

Students need your help a ton.

So give them a project on the computer,

But don't forget to be their tutor.

Lecture a little and discuss a lot,

Then let technology have its shot.

Just mix it up and change it around,

Make sure to let them both abound.

If you balance real well you'll see good things.

And my oh my, what learning it brings!

Technology can certainly be a wonderful tool in the classroom, just as lectures, discussions, and activities can.  The important thing to remember is that balance is what makes a classroom function most effectively.  Too much of a good thing can turn into a bad thing.  However, if teachers incorporate instructional diversity, more students will be reached and learning can be taken to a whole new level.