The rapid evolution of the education system in the Philippines has witnessed a significant shift in incorporating technology into traditional learning.
Over the years, schools have opted to embrace blended or hybrid learning, a system that uses asynchronous and synchronous approaches across all grade levels. While this strategy was first adopted soon after the global pandemic to curb the spread of the disease by limiting student attendance, HyFlex became a standard norm up until today.
TECHNOLOGY AND EDUCATION
It’s safe to say that students have been engaged in technology ever since they knew how to work the computer and use the Internet as a learning and research alternative. It is an underlying truth that they are now more adept on navigating online tools rather than using physical materials or visiting the library to scour for their sources.
There is no point in arguing that technology is an integral part of our daily lives. From our smartphones to the office-issued laptop or PC that we use every day are proofs that we live and thrive in today’s digital age.
THE DARK SIDE OF ONLINE LEARNING
However, it’s a different case for students and their overreliance on technology. Yes, technology gives them unprecedented access to information and a plethora of resources, but this dependence also depletes them of their ability to think critically and independently.
- TECHNOLOGY DEPENDENT
One of the primary concerns of parents regarding online classrooms and resources is that students depend heavily on technology. They are spoon-fed, to say the least, considering that answers or solutions are instantly available with just a simple tap or click. As a result, these deter them from developing certain life skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to think independently.
- MULTIPLE DISTRACTIONS
Students in online classrooms are also prone to distractions. A social media post from their friends, an email, an instant message, online games and the like will often catch their attention and in the process, lose their focus on their task at hand. At the same time, these distractions will make them multitask and can reduce the quality of learning.
- LACK OF INDEPENDENT LEARNING
In contrast to traditional, face-to-face classroom settings where instructors encourage active participation as an instrument to develop independent learning, online classrooms promote passive learning, often without the direct supervision of teachers. This can lead to students without proper motivation to do their assigned tasks or to improve.
A SHINING LIGHT
Despite the once pure online sessions, schools have resulted in blending face-to-face and online classes to foster essential skills and techniques that students can use as they progress on their studies. Still, there is a need to take charge and suggest for classes to teach young minds the importance of participation. Debates, group projects, case studies, and physical activities can help students improve and develop teamwork and critical thinking, among others.
E-books, learning apps and the Internet will always play a crucial role in the learning process of our students, but it is also important for parents to monitor their children and make sure that they are using it properly.
