Technology's Importance in Philippine Education

The paradigm that the educational system was operating within before has changed. Students used to have to visit the library and read large books to find the information they required in the past. In the 20th century, searching for a certain item might provide thousands of hits in a split second. Technology has advanced significantly and is still developing.

In the modern era, electronic devices like computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets have become essential. These are no longer just for entertainment. The education sector in our country currently makes extensive use of them. Filipino kids need access to education even during times of crisis, making the power and significance of technology in education more apparent than ever.

The Value of Technology in Education

Technology has improved to the point where it now propels the expansion of businesses. Companies take advantage of this to increase performance, which is why they seek out tech-savvy personnel that can provide value to their organizations. In keeping with this, education at a school provides a solid foundation for future careers. By incorporating technology into their system through their materials, facilities, rooms, and even modules, it can benefit these children. However, today's youth are digital natives. When it comes to their regular studies, technology can be more beneficial than counterproductive.

We now see the significance of it in our nation in light of the current pandemic. It was also referred to be the "silver lining of our education system" in a virtual round table discussion titled "Education During Trying Times" held in October 2020. "We live in a technological and digitally advanced era. Let's make the most of them all, keep supporting one another, and work to solve the problems the education sector is currently facing, suggested Dr. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela, SEAMEO secretariat director.

Between quarantine and education, technology fills the gap. We can recollect how our education sector handled online programs in the second quarter of 2020. Numerous LGUs provided kids with mobile devices, trained teachers to enhance digital learning, and added educational programming to our TV stations. By January 2021, the DepEd TV team actually intended to generate 220 programs per week that would cover every subject. Zoom is becoming the go-to tool for online classes not just in this country but all over the world. Smartphones stop being merely a luxury and start becoming necessary. Everyone needs digital technology in this day and age.

So how important is technology to education? We've outlined a few of the major advantages of technology for both students and teachers.

Benefits of Technology for Teachers and Students

I. Prepares students for their future professions

Digital tools, as previously indicated, will undoubtedly assist students in becoming ready for their future employment. How? With computers, smartphones, and the internet, kids may learn the essential skills needed to compete for occupations that are in demand across the world. Workers require computer skills regardless of where these professions are—in the food sector, IT, agriculture, art, health, or research.

It is possible to practice technical skills using these advanced devices. Furthermore, it instills learning as a lifelong skill. Technology needs to be used to inspire children to love learning new things. It ought to assist them in pursuing their interests. Additionally, it must offer countless opportunities for learning in order to adequately prepare them for the future.

2. Distinctive methods of instruction and learning

Everybody has a different preferred method of learning, right? Some people learn best by hearing, while others learn best by excellent pictures. Certain people prefer verbal learning over logical learning. Yes, they differ, and it can be difficult for teachers to carry out all of these activities in the classroom.

Teachers may now adapt the way that children learn thanks to technology. They can use technology to enhance their teaching strategies and personalize learning, which boosts their productivity and effectiveness as teachers. Teachers are able to offer engaging activities thanks to these practical resources. These include building robots to put what they've learned into practice and viewing films to learn more about the subject. It's also excellent material that encourages and piques children's curiosity.

3. long-term cost reduction and increased learning opportunities

It's true that tech equipment is pricey. Long-term, though, they'll lower your costs. For instance, using online modules or e-books will reduce your printing costs. Investing in a computer for teachers will also enable them to create tests more quickly and calculate students' grades.

Students would be able to learn wherever they are and whenever they want if they have access to mobile devices like laptops. Additionally, it will grant students access to millions of resources that will aid in their academic pursuits. These resources give students access to learning opportunities beyond what is covered in the classroom. Teachers, however, won't be constrained by the modules provided by the institution. 

4. Increases Cooperation and Interaction

Tech can develop these abilities. Even when they are not in the neighborhood of the school, teachers and pupils can communicate. They are encouraged to collaborate even while they are separated by online courses and games. It not only stimulates production, but also both parties' responsibilities. Even if you're not together, will you still collaborate with your team? Can you complete a task that your group leader has assigned? Accountability can be used, however separately.

Additionally, students can now ask inquiries about their academics. One useful suggestion is to be aware of the teacher's working hours. Just ask them to be treated with the decency they deserve at this time.

The Difficulties of Learning with Technology

Benefits are accompanied by difficulties. Technology has advantages and disadvantages, as demonstrated by the difficulties in using technology for education that outlined below.

1. Students are frequently distracted

Using smartphones for education is beneficial. However, due to the prevalence of social media apps like Facebook and Twitter, kids may become easily sidetracked. Many people face difficulties with inconsistent internet connections, which can make it difficult for them to fully engage in online learning.

Additionally, many students now find taking classes online to be difficult. They could experience burnout and screen fatigue. Many people also struggle to prioritize their family responsibilities and academic obligations.

2. Continually being free

Online courses might provide the idea that they are always free. However, this is untrue. Setting aside time for homework and "me" time is strongly advised. However, if the circumstance demands it, go test your patience. Additionally, students are finding it difficult to adjust to online learning.

3. Not every student has access to digital resources.

Many children lack access to these resources, particularly teenagers who are not enrolled in school and street children. How will students spend their time now that school is online and offline? Will they also give up on learning? It's true that the government is acting to meet these kids' educational needs. Reaching out to as many kids as possible remains the issue, though.