Online Magazine - Wayra Giraldo Cardona

THE DIGITAL WORLD The digital gap

TECHNOLOGY AS A TEACHING TOOL WAYRA GIRALDO, 2023

How does the digital divide affect education? How can we bridge the digital divide and ensure that all students have access to technology?

Welcome to a new edition of our magazine! In this journey through knowledge and innovation, we are pleased to present to you a special selection of reflections and tips that encompass the fascinating world of technology and its integration in the educational sphere.

In the digital era we live in, the impact of technology on our lives is undeniable. Within these pages, you will find a series of thought-provoking and insightful reflections from prominent authors on how technology has transformed and continues to shape our environment.

In this edition, we focus on a crucial aspect: the pivotal role that technology plays in the educational field. Our advice aimed at educators aims to provide effective tools and strategies for integrating technology into the classroom, thus fostering a dynamic and stimulating learning environment. We aim to inspire educators to embrace technological innovations as allies in their endeavor to shape young and creative minds.

l a i r o t i d E

CON

TENT THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY ADVISES FOR TEACHERS ADVISES FOR STUDENTS A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME WAYRA’S REFLECTION

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THE

TECH MAGAZINE

THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY "INNOVATION AND EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY IN THE CURRENT LATIN AMERICAN CONTEXT, 2020" In

popular

"technology" machines,

mentality, is

modern

the

term

synonymous

with

or

novel

things,

inventions, and generally, the entire range of

tangible

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that

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mankind (Rodríguez, 1998). Meanwhile, innovation in this culture is synonymous with changes or discoveries. However, if we take a brief overview of history, the Center for Innovation and Development in Distance

Education

presents contributions,

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2019)

innovative the

earliest

agricultural techniques in prehistory, the discovery of fire, and the creation of the wheel, to the upheavals of the 20th century.

Regarding the meaning of innovation, Moreno (1995) defines it as the selection, organization, and creative utilization of human and material resources in new and unique ways, resulting in the achievement of a higher level concerning previously set goals and objectives. According to Piña and Senior (2020), it is also "known as a component or product of interaction that influences or conditions science and technology (S&T)."

The institutionalization of technology and innovation led to organizational changes on a global scale, permeating all areas including business, economics, politics, education, among others. The intention was to create systems that would increase productivity with satisfactory outcomes, efficiently handle data, and generate responses in minimal time. In this sense, Carbonell (2006) defines innovation as a series of interventions, decisions, and processes, with a certain degree of intentionality and systematization, aimed at modifying attitudes, ideas, cultures, contents, models, and pedagogical practices.

Torres and Cobo (2017) argue that by 1984, UNESCO defined educational technology as the systematic way of conceiving, applying, and evaluating the set of teaching-learning processes, taking into account both technical and human resources as well as the interactions between them, aiming to achieve more effective education. In this regard, Area (2009) suggests that informatics has stormed into people's lives like a whirlwind, sweeping away traditional cultural, work, and communicative modes and forms.

ADVISES FOR TEACHERS 1. Use digital tools to make classes more interactive and engaging: Digital tools can assist educators in making classes more interactive and engaging. For instance, online educational games, videos, podcasts, and mobile applications can be used to teach languages.

2. Ensure students have access to necessary technology: It's crucial to ensure that students have access to the necessary technology to participate in online classes. If some students lack access to technology, alternatives such as printed materials or in-person classes can be provided.

3. Get trained in technology use: Educators should undergo training in using technology to effectively implement it in the classroom.

Numerous online resources like video tutorials and courses can help teachers learn to utilize various digital tools.

4. Combine technology with other teaching methods: Technology shouldn't be the sole teaching method used in the classroom. It's essential to combine technology with other teaching methods such as reading, writing, and conversation to ensure effective student learning.

Advises for students Technology enables flexible learning through online resources and diverse digital tools, fostering collaboration and emphasizing the importance of training for optimal use.

Technology offers flexibility to learn at your own pace and tailor learning to fit your schedule through online educational resources.

Furthermore, digital tools such as language apps, math games, and online educational videos enhance the learning process.

Collaborating with other students via online study groups and forums is also feasible. To make the most of it, it's crucial to train yourself in using these tools through available online tutorials and courses.

1. Listen to English podcasts: Podcasts are an excellent way to improve your listening comprehension and learn new vocabulary.

There are many podcasts available online that cover a wide variety of topics, from news to entertainment. Some of the most popular podcasts are "This American Life," "Serial," and "Radiolab."

2. Use mobile apps to learn English: There are many mobile apps available that can help you effectively learn English. Some of the most popular apps include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone. These apps allow you to learn English at your own pace and in your own time.

3. Participate in online forums: Online forums are an excellent way to practice your English writing skills and receive feedback from other students. There are many online forums available covering a wide range of topics, from grammar to pronunciation.

4. Watch movies and TV shows in English: Watching movies and TV shows in English is a great way to improve your listening comprehension and learn new vocabulary. If you struggle to understand what's being said, you can turn on English subtitles to assist you.

Useful tools:

A JOURNEY Through Time Some tools Digital tools are a great aid for learning and teaching English. They allow students to practice skills such as reading, writing, listening comprehension, and conversation in an interactive and enjoyable environment. Additionally, digital tools can be highly beneficial for teachers as they enable personalized learning, taking it to another level by being more inclusive and globalized. .

I found the answer in technology.

I discovered the power of technology when I had the opportunity to teach English to a group of students from the LiLEI strategy at UNAD. It was a very enriching experience, but also a significant challenge. The students had varied levels of English, ranging from beginners to advanced. Additionally, they had very different interests and motivations for learning the language. Some wanted to improve their English for academic reasons, others for professional purposes, and some simply out of curiosity or pleasure.

In today's world, technology is an integral part of our lives, and language learning is no exception.

Digital tools can assist students in learning English more effectively and efficiently, which can be particularly crucial for those who lack access to in-person classes.

Moreover, digital tools can be highly advantageous for students seeking to practice English outside the classroom.

There are numerous applications and websites available that offer interactive activities to enhance English skills, such as:

T E C H N O L O G Y

WAYRA’S REFLECTION THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN CLASSROOMS IS NO LONGER JUST A TOOL THAT FACILITATES TEACHING; NOWADAYS, TECHNOLOGY IS A NECESSITY. STUDENTS ARE HUNGRY FOR KNOWLEDGE, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT MEANS BYPASSING PROCESSES TO REACH RESULTS MORE QUICKLY. The use of technology in education is a subject that deeply interests me, as I am a millennial and have witnessed significant technological advancements, especially in education during my school years. In my opinion, technology can be an extremely useful tool to enhance learning and make the teaching process more engaging and appealing. It allows students to explore and become more efficient in their tasks. From my experience, I have found that digital tools can be particularly helpful for learning and teaching languages. I have used various platforms to improve my English and support my classes, providing my students with different ways to engage with the language. This not only keeps them motivated and focused but also serves as a fun and effective way to practice skills such as reading, writing, listening comprehension, and conversation.

Furthermore, I believe technology can be very useful for personalized learning. Students can learn at their own pace and focus on areas they need to improve, or be guided through playful learning experiences.

However, it is important to consider the potential negative effects of technology in education. For instance, excessive use of electronic devices can be detrimental to students' mental and physical health.

Additionally, technology can be costly, limiting access for some students.

Therefore, as parents, family members, educators, and students, we must be aware and promote responsible use of technology without crossing certain boundaries.

WAYRA’S REFLECTION

Please find in my Youtube channel some didactics activities to use in your classes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuYI5cARkhk

Please find here some english lessons with some useful tools to use in your classes, https://unadvirtualedumy.sharepoint.com/:f:/r/personal/wgiraldoca_unadvirtual_edu_co/Docum ents/TFLT%20-%20ePortfolio%20-%20Wayra%20Giraldo%20Cardona? csf=1&web=1&e=8cblEN