Using Technology as a Tool for Teaching, Learning and Developing 21st Century Citizenship Skills

Liñan, Ara Angelika R.

Bachelor in Elementary Education (BEED)
Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Ragay Branch

ABSTRACTION

Technology has certainly changed the way we live. Due to the fast advancement in technology, it has
increasingly growing its importance in the education sector. It becoming an integral part of any modern
classroom. Beginning in the 1970's, with the use of television in the classroom, to computers in the
classroom in the 1990's, to the social media technologies of today, advances in information technology are
affecting how students learn and how teacher teach. Technology has revolutionized the field of education.
The use of technology in education has changed the face of education and it has created more educational
opportunities. Both teachers and students have benefited from various educational technologies.
Technology provides teachers and students with access to a variety of educational process. Technology
supports both the learning and teaching process. It has digitized classroom through digital learning tools
like computers, phone, iPads and has increased student's engagement and motivation towards learning.
Technology occupies an important role in the 21st century. The technology is essential to the 21st century
education. Technology in 21st century skills are the abilities that enable students to access, analyze,
synthesize, manage, evaluate, develop, create and share information in a variety of forms and media that
incorporate a global perspective.

Keywords: technology, teaching and learning, 21st century skills, classroom, learners

INTRODUCTION interactive software such as Google Maps. By

As we progress further into a 21st century, our
society is becoming more and more integrated to
technology. The era of 21st century is regarded as
era of technology. Technology has the potential
to increase access to education and improve its
relevance and quality. The role of technology in
education is very important, it is included as a
part of the curriculum, as a means of aiding
instructions and also as a tool to enhance the
learning and teaching process of the students and
teachers. Technology provides teachers and
students with access to a variety of educational
resources that inspire creativity, critical thinking,
communication and collaboration. Technology
facilitates active engagement with the learning
material. It makes the learning process
interactive, and students learn by engaging,
researching, and receiving feedback. This makes
learners passionate about what they are learning.
For example, they may study geography using
using the internet, students can research real
issues happening at that moment that are related
to the classroom curriculum.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Technology opens doors to many opportunities
by linking the world together. The positive
influence of technology is valuable and can
maximize the overall experience. Technology in
the classroom is the theory, development,
utilization, management and evaluation of
processes and resources for learning. Districts
and schools implement technology initiatives for
different reasons. Program goals include
increasing students’ competitiveness, reducing
inequities in access to social media, raising
students’ achievement and engagement, creating
a more active learning environment, and making
it easier to differentiate instruction according to
students’ needs (Bonifaz & Zucker, 2004).
However, technology in education doesn't result
in effective teaching and learning. It still requires
a guide, a purpose and does require some effort
and strategies to integrate it effectively. George
Couros once said, “Technology will not replace
great teachers but technology in the hands of
great teachers can be transformational.”
Integrating technology into the teaching practice
offers a new way for students to interact and
engage with course material. To realize fully the
benefits of technology in education system and
classroom environment and provide authentic
learning experience, educators need to use
technology effectively in their practice.
CONCLUSION
In overall conclusion, technology is a tool that
can change the nature of learning. The use of
technology has become an important part of the
learning process in and out of the class. By
embracing technology in the classroom, it is
entirely transforming the way that school teach,
and the way children learn. Technology is a
versatile and valuable tool for developing,
teaching and learning. Teachers in the 21st
century needs to prepare to use technologies
effectively.
TRANSLATIONAL RESEACH
Technology is important in the educative process.
Engaging with technology in the classroom has
not only helped students learn better but they also
acquire multi-tasking skills. It is an effective way
to connect with students of all learning styles.
With the use of technology, students and teachers
are able to access knowledge at any time and
place of their choice.
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https://online.purdue.edu/ldt/learning-design-
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Partnership for 21stCentury Skills. (2007).
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