Can computers replace teachers in traditional classrooms? No. If a computer replaces the teacher in a classroom, it is no longer a traditional classroom. However, is it feasible for a student to learn from a computer as he or she would from a teacher in a traditional classroom? I am sure in some circumstances yes. Yet, I do believe that having a teacher in a traditional classroom setting can be beneficial in ways that no computer can be.
The thinking and reasoning used by Kaplan, Kahn, Jukes, and Taylor are potentially changing the game of teaching. Studies are being done that indicate not only are students processing information differently, but also their brains are potentially changing. They are adapting to the vast amounts of technology being thrown at them. This will drastically change how teachers teach, what information is taught, what classrooms look like, and eventually what schools will look like.
With the way things are changing, I have no doubt that in time the job description for teachers will be different than it is now. According to the plan, I will have my teaching certificate at the end of December. I fully expect each year to be vastly different than the year before!
Not only will each year be different, but also each class will be different. While some classes may be taught completely on-line, others maybe hybrid courses, and some maybe taught traditionally. I believe that all courses, even music, art, math, science, and literature can be taught online; however, I think that students benefit from being in a classroom with a teacher. There are things that a computer cannot do. A computer cannot build personal relationships with students, encourage students to do their best, and a computer cannot give students advice or relate to students.
There is something physical about a school experience that is as important as content covered in an online class. Socializing with people, learning how to interact with others is an integral part of education. I fear that a student that gets their education solely online might not develop socially.
I think in order for students to benefit from school both students and schools need to adapt. Educational environments need to adapt to better suit today’s students. Students need to adapt to the school environment by learning to follow rules set forth. Students need to realize that learning can be fun, even without playing games.
Depending on the student the potential flexibility gained in an online class may outweigh the benefits a person-to-person experience. However, I think it completely depends on the student. There are some students who wouldn’t benefit from an online course. For example, I despise online classes. They are monotonous to me. I enjoy going to class, speaking with others, and learning in a conventional environment. I would give up the flexibility of an online course in order to have the social interactions with others.
Online classes, hybrid classes, and the overall use of technology in the classroom are not farces or passing fads. The fact is that today’s students are changing and schools need to find a way to meet the needs of these students.
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