Technology in the classroom and how can the librarian help?

Technology in years past may have been a radio, an overhead projector, a cassette listening center and if it was a really big deal, there was a visit to the computer lab. Technology has evolved so much more in the last 20, 10 and even 5 years.  It is a constantly progressing and evolving. Technology has changed the way the educators deliver instruction and the way that students interpret their academic education. Students now can access technology literally at the tips of their fingers. Education has changed its standards of students’ technology literacy expectations.  Today a student is expected to: use technology of multiple resources, analyze and format data, collaboration and use information responsibly, all while being creative and unique. (AASL, 2007). It is a tall order for today’s learners but not impossible. With todays experienced and eager educators and librarians students are ahead of generations past. 

Technology today can help reach a wide range of student interest and abilities.  Students of varied capabilities and learning styles have access to tools that naturally differentiate to their needs. Technology is not only flexible but it has made a large impact on the general interest and motivation to learn about different topics. Simply because the medium of tools being used is electronic learners are enthused to participate. Because technology is so motivating to students, it has also influenced teachers to step outside of their box and integrate more technology into the curriculum. The idea that students will uncover the academic literacy themselves is not realistic. (Johnson, Levine, Smith, Haywood, 2010)

With technology constantly changing and the demands technology literacy growing, there has to be a facilitator of the information. Students alone with technology will not produce technology literate students. Students are able to discover basics of a tool but cannot take full advantage of the tool and educational opportunity it offers. (Neuman, 2002). Libraries should be a playground for literacy, science, technology and collaboration.  Librarians are assumed the responsibility of coach and keepers of this playground, there to guide and encourage students that visit.

As an educated, informed, professional it is the role of the librarian to integrate technology into as many possibilities as allowed. It is a service to the students, parents and community to build and create ready learners and thinkers for this 21^st century world. The librarian must model problem solving and a risk taking attitude to inspire the students and staff alike. The librarian is an important path finder to students seeking knowledge and information.

References

American Association of School Librarians. (2007). Standards for the 21^st century learner [Brochure]. Chicago, IL: American Library Association.

Johnson, L. F., Levine, A., Smith, R. S., & Haywood, K. (2010). Key emerging technologies for elementary and secondary education. The Education Digest,76(1), 36-40.

Neuman, S. (2002). The role of school libraries in elementary and secondary education. Teacher Librarian, 30(1), 74-74+.