Monday 27 January 2014

Use of Computers in Education

Over the years, computers have changed the way the world works. They have proved to be an asset not only for the corporate sector, but also in other sectors such as medicine, architecture, communication, research, sports and education. Speaking of which, computers have taken over the field of education, bringing over its influence in every possible manner. These very machines, which were once used only in research laboratories and government offices have now become a common sight in schools across the world. Today, computers have touched the lives of several students living in the remotest part of our planet, be it directly or otherwise.

There is no denying the fact that computers completely rule the life of an average student in any corner of the world, be it in the form of hand-held devices, or printed textbooks (thanks to the use of computers in printing). What follows are some instances of the utility of computers in education.

e-Learning Gets Real

Let's begin with stating the obvious. Without computers, learning would be restricted within the walls of institutions, and nothing could possibly be more unfair. Knowledge and education is empowering, and the best way to make is accessible to everyone is through computers. Working professionals, stay-at-home parents, senior citizens, even curious minds benefit from online education. e-Learning is accessible and affordable, not to mention extremely doable, be it a professional looking to hone his management skills or a college student wanting to learn a foreign language.

Making Knowledge Interesting
 
We all know how learning about the depth of the Mariana Trench in geography class can be a little dowdy for young children. However, by introducing the audio-visual method of learning, computers have made education interesting. As communication systems enhance, education will change for better - computers will make our children more curious, knowing that the answers to their questions are at hand.

Bringing the World Closer
 
 
Computers are shrinking our world, and from what we're seeing, it appears to be a mixed bag. While social networking is a boon for those who wish to use it to expand their academic horizons, it does come with implications. But, focusing on the positives of networking - it bonds people around the world, helping students reach out to scholars and vice versa, making connectivity worthwhile.

Presenting Creative Options
 
With all the creative software at hand, it has become easy for students to jazz up their assignments and projects; basically, assignments have become activities that students look forward to, from their earlier mundane form. From a higher perspective, the usage of computers in aiding learning is prominent in almost every field, from botanical sciences to fine arts.

Being a Source of Knowledge

 
The internet is now what once used to be the library. What's more, it is easier to access, along with being a convenient and fairly reliable source of information. With bulky computers now being popularly reduced to hand-held devices, students literally have information at their fingertips. Again, free knowledge that is easily available does have its pitfalls, but looking at the larger picture, it is definitely more beneficial.
Reducing Paperwork
 
Computers have more or less eliminated paperwork in the administration section of education. Thanks to websites, we can do away with printing brochures, application forms, admission and other administrative documents, resulting in procedures that are cost-effective and environment friendly. Tests have also become online, making assessment procedures easy for teachers and professors.

There is no questioning the impact of computers in education; their usage has completely revolutionized the way education is imparted, received, communicated and processed. In the years to come, more changes are expected, changes that will further refine the field of education.
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