Technology plays an integral part in modern schools to help pupils learn more efficiently and to learn new skills. Pupils use computers for a number of reasons as they can build a bridge between school and workplace. By using a computer pupils can learn to use such applications as PowerPoint and excel. Computers can be used for creative purposes as well allowing pupils to edit films that they have made. Other pieces of technology that can be utilised in schools include digital cameras and editing suites.

Use of computers in schools

Computers form an important role in schools as they offer a variety of uses to help pupils learn. Computers are useful to pupils as they help them to conduct research for an assignment or to help educate them generally. The following are examples of how computers are used in schools.

The use of computers to improve typing skills

Pupils can learn many basic tasks associated with administration work to help them prepare for future employment. Pupils can learn to type at an early age, which will give them an important skill in life. The ability to type efficiently will help them to be more efficient when it comes to schoolwork. Computers can encouraged to, learn such programs as Excel and Word. These are important skills will help pupils once they have left education behind.

The use of computers for media work

Students can be encouraged to shoot short films on digital cameras and to edit the footage on an editing program. Pupils could even be given the opportunity to enter their films into a festival.

Computers for research purposes

There was a time when school pupils had to conduct research in the library using books. Now pupils have access to computers, which grant them the opportunity to access a wealth of information via CD ROMs and the internet.

Computers for educational games

Games are great way of getting children to learn. Educational software can help to teach such subjects as maths, English and art. The great thing about learning such subjects on a computer as that they can go through a task again and again until they have become familiar with it.

Computers for presentations

PowerPoint can be a great asset for pupils to make their presentations. High quality presentations can be created with the use of this software.

Pupils that have special needs benefit from adaptive technologies such as voice recognition software for the blind.

Video cameras

Students can get creative by using video cameras. Digital video equipment can serve a number of purposes included;

• To record presentations.
• To record documentaries.
• Students can get really creative and attempt to make advertisements.

The videos created by students can be edited on a computer which can then be uploaded to You Tube.

Article by Matt Smith – education and boarding school blogger.