Monday, February 5, 2007

Relative advantage

"Well, I've done it this way for years and I've been surviving just fine. Besides technology is just a hassle." This often heard quote is not an example of the notion of relative advantage. As described in the text, people are more likely to change if they truly see the advantages of using new methods over old ones. They have to be willing to adequately look into the change. Then it is necessary to genuinely weigh out the positives and negatives to decide if the benefits of the means of change are worth the time, effort, and money.
To me one of the most beneficial usages of technology in the classroom is to help make abstract concepts more concrete to students. For example, the use of the Internet and software enhanced my third grade space unit. They were able to learn about newest space happenings and not rely on outdated textbooks. Technology also made the lessons more motivating and interactive. This is the case with any subject matter. Technology also helps students with learning disabilities learn in ways otherwise not possible as well.
Beyond being beneficial to students, technology is helpful for teachers with lesson planning and record keeping. In my district, technology has greatly changed the way progress reports are generated.

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