I’m a huge proponent of using technology to aid learning. My students routinely use math software on my school’s iPads. During the after school program, I needed to pull a few students for an activity. They were so engaged by the program (or probably just by the iPads themselves) that they didn’t hear me calling their names. Even after a tap or two on the shoulder, I still couldn’t get their attention. They laughed and said they were like zombies. One student added, “Yeah iPad Zombies.” I think the title is very befitting.
Many say that children are somewhat addicted to technology. They’ve got to have the latest phones and video games. They argue that it’s stifling their creativity and ability to use their imaginations. But I’m not sure if this increased use of technology is inherently a bad thing for today’s children.
On one hand, it is a bit disheartening when my students prefer to use the iPads and computers during recess time, when they really should be having fun doing something physically active and developing social skills through their interaction with peers. But on the other hand, we can’t deny the advantages of today’s technology. Students have easy and efficient access to information and tools that help them in school. There is much software that subtly enhances certain academic and technical skills (e.g. to pass a level of Angry Birds, one must deep down have some understanding of physics).
So I believe that for students not to become victim to the pitfalls of technology, we must balance leisurely use with meaningful use. We all have gotten trapped by the infamous YouTube loop, but for every loop they fall into, our students must also be using technology to boost or supplement their academic skills. There are thousands if not millions of videos, apps, games and teaching software that can work to students’ benefit. These are the types of iPad Zombies I want in my classroom.
E. M. Jones
Fifth Grade Teacher
Bancroft Elementary School