Technology For Everyone!

In a learner-centered classroom, the needs and interests of the learner are most important.  The learner has the opportunity to direct the learning process through activities like problem solving, inquiry, role play and simulation.  They also have the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in a variety of ways, according to their interest.  A teacher’s role is to facilitate and guide this learning rather than to present all the information they feel is relevant to the student.

      This approach naturally lends itself to meeting the diverse needs of students in a class.  In a learner-centered approach, students can work on projects at different levels, and in different time frames.  Teachers would not be under as much pressure to keep all students on the same schedule and to progress through material at a designated rate.  Students would also have the opportunity to choose ways to learn that accommodate their learning styles, such as visual, audio, or kinesthetic.

      Technology could be a great tool in helping teachers create learner-centered environments.  Using computer programs and websites, teachers could differentiate instruction for their students more easily.  With such a wide variety of educational material online, they could also find ways to engage students by tapping in to their interests.  On a broader scale, through a website such as teachertube.com, students in remote areas can view instructional videos from music, art and dance teachers that they may not have access to in their schools.

      However, the benefits of teaching with technology are only achievable if technology is available.  There is still a considerable gap in the availability of technology between the rich and poor.  Title I funding has helped by providing technology grants to schools with lower socioeconomic status, but that may only help these students while they are at school.  They are still more likely not to have computer access at home. 

Finally, it is important for teachers to be aware of the needs of their students with disabilities.  Do these students have equal access to the technological tools the rest of their students can use?  Teachers should research and gain access to assistive technologies.  For many students, these can help overcome communication and participation barriers.