Technology in the Classroom – Harmful or Helpful?

From touchscreens on white boards to smart tables, to iPads in the classroom, today's schools are embracing technology more and more each years in order to engage the mobile generation of students. It's a well-known fact that kids gravitate towards technology and in a world where video games and Facebook has taken over playing outside, it seems like kids should be finding it easier than ever to succeed in school. However, as more and more schools begin to embrace technology, test scores remain the same, therefore leading people to question its effectiveness.

Is It Helpful?

Commonly, educators who receive new technology must first learn how to use the equipment and then decide whether or not it supports the class curriculum. Regardless of test scores, there are still many proven benefits in incorporating technology into education – from math games that adjust the difficulty level as players progress to electronic books that talk and respond to students right at their classroom desks. These pieces of technology make for an interactive learning experience while freeing up time in the classroom so teachers can focus on spending more time on teaching.

More Benefits

According to David Vinca, founder and executive director of eSpark Learning, an education company that focuses on bringing iPads and iPods into the classroom, "After school and weekend time can become effective learning time with the right technology." Therefore, learning hours extend into the weekend and afterschool for kids who have fun while learning with these computer programs. Another benefit is that educators are able to track and assess student progress with technology. Data-driven information can be derived from many pieces of technology used in the classroom and is valuable information for teachers to revise and review and therefore adapt their curriculum according to their students' needs.

So while the test results may not show a massive difference, technology has the opportunity to completely revamp the way students learn in the classroom by engaging them correctly.

Is It Helpful?

Commonly, educators who receive new technology must first learn how to use the equipment and then decide whether or not it supports the class curriculum. Regardless of test scores, there are still many proven benefits in incorporating technology into education – from math games that adjust the difficulty level as players progress to electronic books that talk and respond to students right at their classroom desks. These pieces of technology make for an interactive learning experience while freeing up time in the classroom so teachers can focus on spending more time on teaching.

More Benefits

According to David Vinca, founder and executive director of eSpark Learning, an education company that focuses on bringing iPads and iPods into the classroom, "After school and weekend time can become effective learning time with the right technology." Therefore, learning hours extend into the weekend and afterschool for kids who have fun while learning with these computer programs. Another benefit is that educators are able to track and assess student progress with technology. Data-driven information can be derived from many pieces of technology used in the classroom and is valuable information for teachers to revise and review and therefore adapt their curriculum according to their students' needs.

So while the test results may not show a massive difference, technology has the opportunity to completely revamp the way students learn in the classroom by engaging them correctly.

The Importance of Classroom Desks in Daily Education

Studies indicate that many students, especially in the elementary grades, are sitting at desks that are not the right size for them. Anyone who has visited a standard classroom can see this for themselves as students' legs dangle or their knees bump the surface under the desk. Providing comfortable and correctly-fitting classroom desks and chairs for students is essential for learning.

Students who do not fit in their classroom desks are more likely to fidget, stand up, or sit in an inappropriate fashion. The student will be distracted by his or her own discomfort and often be distracting others, as well. Ensuring that students are comfortable at the beginning of the school year will save teachers time and hassle and cutting down on distractions will also help increase student performance.

Taking comfort provisions too far, however, can create problems. Some experts have suggested schools purchase ergonomic and adjustable chairs like those used in offices, but teachers and others are quick to decry this solution. Providing 20 children with chairs that move up and down, have adjustable arms or backs, or swivel not only contributes to classroom distraction, but also makes injuries more likely.

There is a middle ground with classroom desks and chairs that meets comfort needs, as well as requirements for a formal education setting. Such items are available in different heights and sizes without the adjustable options, are finished in suitable colors for a positive learning environment, and work in a variety of classroom settings and layouts.

Our products are the best of both worlds. We offer classroom desks with or without storage space and in large and wide sizes, desks for multiple students, and all-in-one chair and desk combos. We understand the needs of modern classrooms and provide options for technological and cooperative learning environments.