Introduction
The use of technology in educational settings has been a topic of heated debate for several decades. It has been acknowledged that proper use of technology helps reach numerous educational goals. It is possible to consider the benefits of educational technologies through an analysis of the correlation between their use and such key factors as learner control and motivation.
Learner Control and Technology
Learner control is one of the most important factors that influence students’ performance. Buchem, Tur and Hölterhof (2014) implement a cross-cultural study to identify the impact technology has on learner control. It is important to add that technology affects this key factor and learner control can also have an impact on the use of technology. Thus, the use of Personal Learning Environments (PLE) was analyzed. The researchers focused on the use of ePortfolio by students of several universities. According to Buchem et al. (2014), students prefer such qualities as flexibility and transparency, which increases their learner control as well as their performance.
Motivation and Technology
Motivation is another key factor that is a concern of educators. Eseryel, Law, Ifenthaler, Ge & Miller (2014) concentrate on motivation, engagement, complex problem-solving skills and game-based learning. The researchers analyzed the correlation between the use of multiplayer online games and students’ motivation as well as the development of problem-solving skills. Eseryel et al. (2014) argue that game-based learning is especially effective when it comes to the development of motivation and problem-solving skills. Therefore, it is clear that the use of technology (online games) helps improve motivation and achieve specific educational goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to note that the debate on the use of technology is still ongoing. Proper use of technology can positively affect the development of learner control and motivation. It also has a positive impact on students’ performance. Importantly, such key factors as motivation and especially learner control have a significant impact on the use of technology in educational settings. Educators are bound to employ technologies that will be effective and students’ responses to certain technology help adjust technological tools to particular educational goals.
Reference List
Buchem, I., Tur, G., and Hölterhof, T. (2014). Learner control in personal learning environments: A cross-cultural study. Journal of Literacy and Technology, 15(2), 14–53.
Eseryel, D., Law, V., Ifenthaler, D., Ge, X., & Miller, R. (2014). An investigation of the interrelationships between motivation, engagement, and complex problem solving in game-based learning. Educational Technology & Society, 17(1), 42–53.