Struggles of Educational Technology

Educational technology has been slow to change and  faces many challenges.  For example, some educators and school administrators are slow to embrace the latest technology because they are accustomed to the older ways.  This is gradually changing as new educators enter the field because they have grown up with more technology.  When new technology enters the scene, educators have to learn how to use the new and then teach it too; for some this is just too much of a challenge. Another issue is the availability of technology in the home. Not all families can afford computers and iPads, or they might choose not to own it for other cultural reasons. Teachers have to be cautious when assigning homework that involves technology because not every student has the luxury of a computer at home. Lastly, some schools in areas of poverty do not have the financial ability to provide technology for their students, and some cannot even afford to purchase textbooks.

Teachers should embrace technology because it will continue to change whether they like it or not. If educators can stay up to date on the latest resources and tools, then they will not fall behind, and they will be better suited to use it in the classroom. Also, if students do not have access to a computer or other technology at home, then teachers need to be aware of that and provide alternative assignments or stay away from work that requires technology at home. If a teacher works in a school district with no technology and limited resources, then he or she needs to be creative and rely on good ol' pen and paper or a chalkboard if available.  As a future educator, it is important to take note of each of these obstacles in educational technology. Personally, I would follow the points I previously mentioned.