The term educational technology refers to the use of technology in educational settings, whether it be elementary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, corporate training sites, or independent study at home.
Technology and Learning
Most schools in Malaysia have adopted teaching and learning via technology as many teachers are well-equipped and readily progressing towards 21st century skills for students.
As an English language teacher, Kamilah Abdullah, who represented the country in E2 last year, said the most challenging part is encouraging students to use the language as much as possible.
From her observation, technology is one of the most powerful tools to support language use inside the classroom.
“Technology empowers learners to take charge of their learning. By using technology in class, students are free to learn at their own pace.”
Kamilah added technology does not change the teachers’ role in class but helps them to vary their teaching strategy and empowers students’ learning.
“No matter how advanced the technology used in class, a personal touch and face-to-face interactions between the teachers and students are still vital to teaching and learning.”
However, she believes that using technology can transform higher education in Malaysia. Although there is limited research in some areas, there is evidence that the use of educational apps does help children learn. Apps can act as built-in lessons and aid a teacher in tracking a student’s progress. Furthermore, the right app can enhance a teacher’s lesson by offering another approach to a subject.