In today’s world, we’re forever looking for new and creative methods to engage students in ways that promote collaborative learning and, perhaps more importantly, critical thinking skills. Often, these ways are to replace the traditional paper & pen with interactive learning using tablets and large touch screens. It’s thinking about this tendency that we’ve chosen to look at some of the benefits this style of learning has for students.
Technology is Familiar
There’s no escaping touch screens, tablets, mobile phones, or large display screens. They have very quickly become tech that is ‘household’ so the chance are your students are going to be so familiar using one form or another that they may even be able to teach you a thing or two. This familiarity means that pupils can be quick to access materials and explore content as the device is second nature to them they’re not spending valuable time learning how to use new resources.
Whilst paper & pen will always be an important (essential) part of learning, using familiar resources can result in improved student confidence to express themselves, really enabling active learning.
Collaboration is Better for Wellbeing
One of the main benefits to using interactive technology is the increased level of collaborative learning. Whether this comes from sharing devices, having many students using the multi-touch features, or simply using Office 365 and OneNote, the technology available is designed to make sharing ideas easier, increase participation and to put collaboration at the heart of development. Why not encourage more groups of learners working together to produce better work, learning from each other?
The skills acquired through interaction are essential for the future; working well with other people produces better work. What’s more, there’s a better sense of identity and respect: when students learn to work with classmates properly in the classroom key social-emotional areas are enhanced resulting in happier pupils. This respect should follow in the playground. Happier pupils, of course are more likely to attend lessons and participate in a positive manner.
Better Knowledge Retention
Exploring the topic at focus with freedom, stimulation and interactivity will embed knowledge in a better way than passive learning (lecture, rote memorising information, reading facts & figures). This doesn’t have to be using technology, but devices can be included to improve interactivity and participation. IT also means new information can be researched independently and shared by peers; whilst staying on topic, the exploration of an area can be determined by individual interests. In turn, this can increase the scope of a topic. And, because your students have had the freedom to learn in their own way, it becomes much easier to remember the information particularly as they are better engaged with their learning.
Implementing Touch Technology
Interactive technology doesn’t have to come at an unachievable price. In fact, when you’re resourceful with your solutions it can come at a very education-friendly price. That’s where Computer Talk can help. It’s with our expert advice (formed over 26 years of experience working with schools) that we are able to offer a range of interactive solutions that really take into account your needs and budget.