Introduction
Did you know that the human brain is more or less like a computer? Though the two are not similar in terms of physical appearances, there exists a striking resemblance in structure and the functions they carry out. Firstly, computers have memory just like human brains. However, computers do have a distinct advantage in that their memory can be erased and replaced.
Both computers and brains can also store and process information though the processing speed of computers is much higher than that of the brain. The advantages brought about by the use of computers have led to the adoption of technology in modern learning institutions. This presentation takes a look at the impact technology has had on the education sector. This will be done by analyzing the positive and negative effects of technology adoption in learning.
Positive impact
Literacy development
Students can gain access to digital tools such as audio and video clips, images and Web pages by using computers in learning. These tools enable the students to improve on their vocabulary development since they can access better platforms for word pronunciations, word meanings and comprehension strategies. This will, in turn, go a long way in improving literacy development among students.
Improved language acquisition
Use of technology in learning also enables students to access a better platform for language acquisition. For instance, students gain access to video tutorials that are human interactive. Thus, they can be able to slow down the video playback speed, rewind it or even hit the pause button in order to note down an important point or take a short break. This greatly enhances language acquisition.
Negative impact
Technology overuse
Though it has a myriad of advantages, technology has also proven to be a bit disadvantageous in the learning process. One notable disadvantage is technology overload. Some students spend too much time staring at the computer screen to an extent of limiting their outdoor activities. This negatively affects growth and development in young children. Technology should hence be used as a supplement to normal learning and not as the sole method of learning.
Reduced creativity
The rise of the Internet has really changed the world as we know it. With the instant click of a mouse button, people can now shop, pay bills and communicate with each other over long distances. The development of search engines such as Google and Yahoo give students the mentality that every answer can be found on the Internet. This notion has limited their sense of creativity since they don’t take much time to think critically when looking for answers to class assignments.
Conclusion
Much like the human brain, the computer can gain, process and store information. Many modern institutions have used this notion and adopted technology to aid students in their learning process. This has brought a number of advantages such as enhancing literacy development. However, some disadvantages have also cropped up such as technology overuse where the student will spend too much time on the computer and neglect outdoor activities.
Measures should hence be taken to ensure that students use technology in moderation and avoid a situation where the computer actually replaces the student’s brain to an extent that he or she allows the computer to think and make decisions for them.