Blog post 3 – How does the use of ICT in the classroom impact the learning environment?
The learning environment of a classroom encompasses the physical, psychological, and instructional atmosphere. It has previously been established that a positive learning environment is vital for learning success (http://jmd.sagepub.com/content/27/1/25.abstract#cited-by). So how does the use of ICT impact on this classroom learning environment?
Teachers have cited that technology in their classroom results in an increased inclination of students to work cooperatively and to provide peer tutoring. Students collaborating and assisting with one another fosters positive relationships, provides social support, and gives students a sense of pride and enjoyment from helping each other.
The teacher's role in the classroom environment changes as well, with them no longer being the centre of attention and dispenser of information. Rather, the teacher plays the role of the facilitator, providing guidelines and resources to assist students with their learning, and having the freedom to circulate around the classroom moving from student to student, or group to group. As a result, students become more self-regulated and directed to achieving lesson outcomes.
The use of ICT creates a powerful learning environment; therefore, teachers need to be made aware of the impact it can have on creating a motivating classroom in which students can eager to learn and engage.
Further information regarding this topic can be found in this journal article by Smeets (2005) which highlights the contributions ICT play on the classroom environment http://users.ntua.gr/vvesk/ictedu/article4_smeets.pdf.