Personal Philosophy

 Personal Philosophy 

Technology plays an important part in our everyday lives and just as technology is an integral part of our daily lives, it also plays a crucial role in education on a daily basis. Technology is used for multiple purposes that involve enhancing and transforming the learning experience. It provides access to virtually endless amounts of information and enables interactive and engaging learning activities. These learning activities can include multimedia presentations, simulations, educational games, and more. These learning experiences can promote deeper understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. “Technology integration in the classroom is seen as an important educational innovation to enhance teaching and learning processes in the 21st century” (Backfisch et al., 2021, p.1). Technology in education facilitates access to information personalizes learning experiences, promotes collaboration and communication, improves accessibility and inclusivity, offers data-driven insights, provides interactive learning experiences, and supports lifelong learning for both students and educators alike. Technology is a fundamental part of our education system for these reasons and many more. 

Educators have a responsibility to prepare students for the future and the world they will inhabit. Technology is deeply intertwined with various aspects of modern society and the workforce, and therefore teachers should prepare students for their future by equipping them with the necessary digital literacy skills and literacies. Ribble’s Nine Elements of Digital Citizenship were introduced in 2017, updated in 2019, and have been adopted by many schools. The Nine Elements include digital access, commerce, communication and collaboration, etiquette, fluency, health and welfare, law, rights and responsibility, and security and privacy (Dawkins, 2020). By exposing students to digital tools and elements, online research, critical evaluation of information, and responsible online behavior, teachers can help students become confident and competent digital citizens. Integrating technology into education can help students develop technological fluency and adaptability that will be needed in an increasingly digital world. The Bible does not directly address the use of technology in education, but many biblical principles can be applied to the idea that the responsibility of teachers includes integrating technology into the curriculum. The Bible calls believers to pursue excellence in all they do. Colossians 3:23 says “ And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (The King James Version, 1611/1885). Technology is a tool that can be used to enhance instructional practices and improve learning outcomes. By incorporating technology, teachers can strive for excellence in their teaching and provide opportunities for students to grow in their knowledge and skills. Technology is a great tool that facilitates collaboration and communication. Hebrews 10:24-25 says “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (The King James Version, 1611/1885). By incorporating technology, teachers can foster collaboration which enables students to communicate by connecting with each other, sharing ideas, and learning from diverse perspectives. Teachers have a responsibility to meet the needs of their students and provide them with a quality education. As the world becomes increasingly digital, technology skills are necessary for preparing students for their future. By integrating technology teachers can better engage students and create meaningful and effective learning experiences that will prepare students. 1 Corinthians 9:22 says “To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some” (The King James Version, 1611/1885). Adapting to the needs of others, and meeting them where they are is an important biblical principle that can be applied to teaching and the idea that incorporating technology into the curriculum is important. Christian educators should consider how to use technology in a manner that aligns with biblical values, enhances student learning, and prepares students for their futures.

Educators should incorporate technology and us it as a tool for enhancing teaching and learning, collaboration, and preparing students for their future. The inclusion of technology in the curriculum shapes how teachers approach technology in lessons by influencing resource selection, differentiation strategies, assessment methods, collaboration facilitation, digital literacy, and more. Teachers should adapt their instructional practices to leverage technology’s potential in enhancing student learning. 

Reference

Backfisch, I., Lachner, A., Stürmer, K., & Scheiter, K. (2021). Variability of teachers’ technology integration in the classroom: A matter of utility. Computers and Education, 166, 104159. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2021.104159

Dawkins, A. (2020). Digital citizenship, digital legacy, and school librarians. Library Technology Reports, 56(5), 17.

The King James Version. 1885. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/ (Original work published 1769)