Computers Can not Replace Teachers,

MUMBAI: How does one bridge the divide between the chalk and blackboard, and the computer and internet? While teachers, principals, counsellors and even parents admit that it would be a futile exercise to ignore technology in the classroom, there is a very real fear that it will be misused by easily distracted students who have yet to understand the pitfalls of the internet.

A 2000 report from a US organization comprising educationists and health professionals-Alliance for Childhood-questioned the money schools were spending on technology. Computers, said the report, have become the "fool's gold" of the education system. According to the report, instead of raising the standard of learning, computers were actually negating the healthy development of young students.

But the technology and social media landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade; and classrooms are filled with students who were born with a smartphone in their hands. By the time they enter kindergarten, words like 'apps', 'mp3' etc are part of their lexicon.

To ignore this important part of their lives, say principals, would be equally detrimental to the learning process. Educationists suggest a middle path, one where students are taught to use the gadgets that they have responsibly.

"The learning process begins at home. Parents should limit the amount of time their child engages with a gadget, be it the computer or a gaming console. Such activities are exclusive by nature, and by the time the child enters the school he or she is socially awkward because of their limited interaction with their peers," said psychiatrist Dr Hozefa Bhinderwala, adding that children often don't know how to interact with their elders, let alone their peers.

Many city doctors and counsellors are of the opinion that excessive use of technology affects a child's lateral and creative thinking.

"After hours in front of a screen, children tend to become less spontaneous and don't push the boundaries when it comes to imagination. They are in danger of becoming robotic thinkers," said Shubhangi Parkar, head of psychiatry ward at KEM Hospital, Parel.

So how necessary is the iPad, laptop, or the latest smart-phone for a child's learning process?

It's not the gadget, say teachers, as much as it is tapping the wealth of easily accessible information on the internet.

"Children are already tech savvy. We use smart boards, simple projectors, and computers to engage children both mentally and visually. Besides, most children already have access to the internet at home, and many have questions that are not covered in the textbook," said Shirin Castelina, a teacher at Holy Family School in Andheri.

Even the latest gadget and the best internet website, however, cannot replace a good teacher.

"Children today lead complicated lives ruled by technology. Instead of adding to the information overload, it is the teacher's job to simplify lesson plans. Children today need to be in touch with the real world, and the school teacher is the one person who can draw the line and decide how much is too much," said psychologist Seema Hingorrany.

It's all about moderation. If the educator fails to engage with his or her students, no amount of technology will help, say experts. The teacher's job, then, is to break down information into bite-sized pieces, and ensure that their children have understood the topic covered. This can even be achieved with the aid of a simple blackboard and chalk. - Times of India