Information Technology And The Learning Environment In Primary Schools

Abstract

Human Capital Theory has been based on education in every country. Investment in education gets higher level of productivity and better living conditions. There is a big relationship between education and technology. Technology is used in the classroom more frequently than ever before. Information technology helps the teachers provide better learning environment. But the question is "To what extend can technology be used in the classroom?", especially in primary schools. Technology is overused in some primary school classrooms. This can cause a variety of problems. Many students learn best by physically and mentally interacting with what they are studying, especially in primary school. One problem that many classroom teachers face is that students often use computers primarily for games. Technology should be used to supplement the classroom activity, but should not be used as the main mean of teaching in primary schools. Technology may potentially affect students a disservice if used inappropriately and more than enough. Using technology in teaching, teachers must be aware of the potential hindrances technology may bring to the teaching process. Some negative effects of technology in today's classroom are that it can take away valuable learning time, it may be overused, and it may also turn educational experiences into games for students. If the students are not experienced with technology in the classroom, class time is often wasted on technical troubles. In addition, the teacher faces the difficulty of having a class full of students who are all at different skill levels. In many schools, most students don't have a computer experience. Teachers may have a large portion of their student body with little computer experience. While it is important to educate these children in technology, it must be done at a pace that meets every individual's needs or more learning time will be wasted. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.