Living in the era of technological advancements, it only seems rational that technology becomes a vital teaching tool. As it can be defined, technology in education is most simply and comfortably considered as an array of tools that might prove helpful in advancing student learning and aiding the work of the teacher.
So, what happened during my CELTA course?
Well, while following my CELTA course both of my trainers kept encouraging me to employ different techniques and tools to aid my teaching.
Some of these tools included PowerPoint Presentations and websites that could bring the material of our assigned coursebook to life.
My colleagues and I were also introduced through input sessions and through observation of our “Trainers in action” to various ways of employing educational technology.
I do still remember the comment on one of my TPs regarding a quick quiz that I created using the Smart Notebook 11 App : “Your quiz was fast & furious. It energized your learners and kept them on their toes” – such positive feedback could stimulate nothing more than a strong desire to learn more things on how to use educational technology.
But I mustn’t neglect to mention that, even though my Trainers did give me some very strong incentives to use educational technology, they also advised me that moderation in all things is my best friend.
I was not forced to use technology in my lessons but motivated to do so!