Technology As An Aid

I remember the first time I used any form of technology to help me in my learning. I was about 8 and I used a calculator for the first time in math. While I thought it was awesome, it didn't help me in my learning. Instead, it did the work for me and gave me the answers. I used it for all my homework and I always got an A. However, when it came to test time, I would usually get a low score because I found that I didn't really know how to do the math because the calculator was always doing it for me. So while it was cool, it hindered my ability to learn. Oops! I got into big trouble and had to buckle down and study hard. In my freshman year of high school, we were transitioning from typewriters to computers. I took a typing test half the class on a typewriter and half on a computer. This little bit of technology helped me learn how to navigate the simplest of tasks on a computer and it helped teach me the basics of typing. This obviously aided me in how to write papers and type correctly, etc. There was no Internet when I was in high school and I didn't go to college right away. I waited a decade. When I was in my mid twenties, I attended at trade school that was business and computer focused. This obviously aided me in my learning. I learned how to format letters, memos, doing mail merge, email, and many other computer related tasks that would then help me get a great office job. When I decided it was time to get a real college education, I was amazed at all the different ways one could go to school. I took most classes in the classroom on campus, but there were other options too, that I partook in. A student could take classes online, or through distance learning. There was  an option to take a class through local cable television. You would just tune in on specific days at specific times. Without the technology of the television and cable, one wouldn't be able to do that. Because of the Internet, I was able to take a bunch of online classes (including the one that is requiring me to type this blog right now)! Without the technology of the computer and the Internet, I would not be able to research and write and watch videos that have all aided me in my learning. There is so much information that I have gained as a result of technology. Technology is nothing but a good thing in my opinion. Look where we are today, all that we know and all that we can do! It truly is amazing!