Technology in Middle School

Kids today are more tuned into technology than they are to pen and paper work. By using as much technology as possible, it is possible to cut down on behavior problems, attention issues, and help students learn at the same time.

Young teenagers make for some of the toughest students. They are often entering puberty and have little or no interest in the activities of the classroom. Unfortunately, many of the traditional methods of the classroom: lecture, worksheets and independent reading have been shown to be rather ineffective for this group as their bodies have often matured much more quickly than their brains. Teaching middle school with technology, however, can give teachers a secret weapon in the fight against junior high angst and apathy.

The Junior High Student

Most students in junior high are leaving childhood behind and are certainly not yet adults. They are just entering puberty and are an interesting mix of immature behavior and the occasional startling moment of depth and understanding. Some students may still play with dolls and action figures while others spend hours on the phone talking about their latest crush. One thing most of these students have in common, however, is the use of technology.

Students love technology. Students today have never known a time when computers, cell phone, and video games were not part of the household and natural way of life. Teachers, on the other hand, are often learning about technology as they experience its effects in the classroom or try to figure out just what the kids are talking about.

The Secret Weapon of Technology

Middle school is such a special time because many of the students think they know everything, but often are oblivious to most of what goes on around them. They are savvy to the routine of lecture, notes, and worksheet and will play along, but might not fully engage in learning. When a teacher breaks the mold, however, and tries something different, the young teenagers are intrigued and often shake off some of the teenage apathy – at least for one class period.

Using Technology in the Classroom

There are now countless ways to use technology in the classroom. The teacher may be surprised by how differently a class behaves when seated behind computer rather than desks. Computers are a native language to most middle school students. They may need some instructions, but many teachers are shocked to see how proficient even traditionally struggling students are.

Recent research is showing that even basic items such as doing vocabulary and writing on a computer can increase student participation. Writing a rough draft using word processing software can increase fluency and decrease writer’s block. Practicing math problems on the computer keeps students interested for longer stretches of time. Students respond to technology in ways they don’t normally respond in the classroom. It can become a teacher’s most prized instructional tool.