In recent years, computers have been used tremendously in schools and colleges. Despite making knowledge more accessible for both teachers and students, computers are often blamed for their negative impact on personal communication. In my opinion, this impact should not deter students from using computers in education.
The internet has provided both students and teachers with access to more information than ever before, making acquisition of knowledge easier and more accessible. In today’s classes for both teachers and students a whole world of information is available, some of which is interactive. The multimedia sources provide a vast array of material that is ready to be used, demanding little preparation from the teacher. The teacher can now focus on the subject content and how to present rather than making visual aids, potentially fostering a higher caliber of class. In addition, students can become independent learners, guided by their teachers. Present technology will let them access numerous resources for the topic they want to learn. Being guided on how to find information on the web, students can easily find many sites, articles, documents and lectures for their topic.
On the other hand, many feel that technologies in education can deprive students of real human communication. Exchanging messages and emails through the school network is quick and effortless, but such interaction lacks depth. It is face-to-face communication that engages a whole spectrum of verbal and non-verbal components, ranging from emotions to body language which makes interaction more meaningful. However, implementing computers in education does not necessarily mean the prevalence of communicating through devices over face-to-face communication. In contrast, this can only enrich personal communication, providing new opportunities to stay in touch.
In conclusion, even though some can be concerned with possible degrading of personal communication in the era of digitized education, / believe that computers immeasurably benefit both students and teachers by diversifying means of interaction and providing quick access to many learning resources.
