THE PROS AND CONS OF USING TECHNOLOGY TO

TEACHWRITING IN THE CLASSROOM

Jennifer Cutting

What does it mean to use technology in the

classroom? In the 90’s the answer may have been “Oregan Trail”

Others define it as “any tool that can be used to help promote human learning, including – but not limited to – calculators, tablets, Smart Boards, video cameras, digital cameras, MP3 players, PDA’s, and of course the computer.”

The Pros of using Technology in the classroom to teach

writing Provides for choice It helps engage all students Less fatigue for students, the writing

process becomes easier Easy to rearrange, add, or fix information Writing can be more attractive/creative Students may actually write more College and career readiness while

building typing skills

The Cons of using Technologyin the classroom to teach writing

Resources Lack of reliable internet resources Lack of devices, sharing resources,

scheduling issues Lack of support Lack of devices/internet capability in the

student home

Teacher Training Need for technology training Need for technology integration training Need for Technology Integration Specialist

Collaboration

Time Finding the time to fit it into the curriculum The time needed to complete the entire

assignment within the given time frame

Technology can be a distraction

Students may be using it for personal reasons while class is going on

Creating expectations and guidelines for the students and sticking to them will be important for them in respecting your boundaries

In my opinion both sides of the argument have very valid points.

Technology is everywhere and in our every day lives.

Teaching without the use of technology in your classroom to some degree just doesn’t happen nowadays.

Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important.

Bill Gates