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The Benefits and Challenges of Being a Connected Educator

The Benefits and Challenges of Being a Connected Educator

The term "Connected Educator" is a far reaching label. What does it mean to be a connected educator? For me it encompases everything and anything having to do with educational technology. There are both benefits and challenges to being a connected educator. One of the most important benefits would be greater access to information. Today we easily access information thanks to the Internet. When was the last time you had to go to the library to get the answer to a question or find research on a topic? Another benefit for being a connected educator is that it makes teaching more efficient and effective. The immense availability of educational related computer programs and adaptive technologies across all subject areas has changed the way we teach and learn. The constantly growing amounts of educational technology also makes learning more engaging for students and teachers. A few examples include computers, smart boards, tablets, response devices, podcasts, storyboards, videos, adaptive learning programs, educational online games, and the list could go on and on. These resources are examples of what is now a necessary component of any classroom that hopes to engage the learner. However, with the benefits also come challenges. First and foremost would be the time and training needed to effectively incorporate technology in the classroom. For some educators this is not as daunting a task as it might be for others. There are also issues with the costs of technology and funding. Functionality and dependability can be challenges for the connected educator and the connected classroom as well. In addition, there are so many options to choose from when it comes to the equipment, programs and services that can be used that making a decision on the best use of time and money can in itself be a challenge. Although the challenges be at times overwhelming, I contend that the benefits of being a connected educator far outweigh the challenges when you think about the alternative.

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