IT integrated classrooms

MALLIKA MANI

Classroom management is not a skill we teachers can master once and for all. Whenever the context of teaching- learning changes, it impacts the way we manage our classrooms. A new textbook, methodology or even a new set of students can significantly affect the way we organise the teaching - learning process. And when technology is integrated into the curriculum, classroom context changes radically. Obviously this demands new strategies and management styles.

The sheer amount of equipment and the unpredictable hurdles that confront teachers while they master the skill of using technology can be a bewildering experience. The teacher has to be a good problem solver, troubleshooter and organiser to get over them.

Students are often working on different tasks at different levels and the teacher has to effectively monitor numerous activities all at the same time. It is unlike a routine classroom where the teacher has prepared her lessons for the day and spends the 45 minutes class time in structured pre-planned activities. When we use technology, there are many unpredictable events; there is ambiguity and even chaos at times. Nothing happens as planned. Students do not progress at a predetermined pace. Classroom "noise" can be alarming and many teachers wonder how they can "discipline" students oblivious of the fact that students are often sharing and consulting each other. When students work in pairs, assessing their individual work is yet another difficult task. But it is these very challenges that help the teacher forecast, decide, organise and trouble shoot effectively.

Research shows that there is a symbiotic relationship between classroom management and learning outcomes. Unless a minimal level of organisation is in place it is difficult to achieve the objectives of a lesson in the limited time frame available to teachers. But learning to cope with the changes in the classroom context is a challenge to many teachers. Unless supported it can become an overwhelming experience for many.

Perhaps the greatest challenge that a teacher faces is the change in classroom dynamics. Many students know more and emerge as experts in handling a specific hardware or software. It is not surprising to find a student helping the teacher scan and send a picture via mail or open a zip file. Many students who are not high achievers in the traditional examination oriented system, emerge as "whiz kids" in technology and it does immense good to their self esteem.

Peer learning becomes a reality in technology rich classrooms. This enhanced role also makes many students, especially those in senior classes, question the appropriateness of a course, hard or software. Imperceptibly they seem to become responsible for their learning.

Initially uncertain and hesitant, many teachers gradually gain confidence to work in the changed classroom context. Teachers learn how to pair students, monitor group work and assess individual contribution.

What needs to be done?

If the use of technology alters the classroom dynamics so much, it is surprising that teacher education still focuses on skill development only.

Role shifts can be a disquieting experience before teachers realise the good it does to our students. In a classroom focussed on creativity and promoting problem solving classroom management needs to ensure something more than mere obedience, quiet and order. All this requires time, commitment and support to "unlearn to learn again." When we educate teachers in the skill components we also need to address this issue. It is certainly not possible to evolve a set of management strategies for technology- integrated classrooms but rather an understanding of the altered context as a critical component in our teacher education programmes. Perhaps this holds good for any classroom innovation that demands a paradigm shift in teacher roles and perceptions.

(The author heads SRIKRITI- The Teacher Education Centre and can be reached at mallikamani@satyam.net.in)

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Features
Previous : Wonderful world of animals
Next     : Spoken as learnt