Computers in the Workplace

Hey there!

    In week four I had the opportunity to describe the functions of computers in an industry of my choosing. The industry I chose to discuss is education because I work at a local elementary school and directly observe computer use in this setting. In education, computers are used by administrators, school staff, teachers, students, and even parents to aid in the learning process.

How are computers used in the educational system?

    Administrators use computers to store a large amount of information such as student documents, emergency contacts, schedules, and other essential documents. They use computers as sort of a filing cabinet that gives them easy access for future reference. The receptionist at a school may have instant access to student information using a computer, or they may see attendance records that were input by teachers earlier in the day.

    Teachers use computers to store student information, email school administrators/staff, or input grades into a virtual grade book. Some teachers use computers to generate notes or PowerPoints or display videos/presentations that visually educate students. Teachers also use computers to communicate back and forth with parents. For example, my son's school district adopted third-party apps (parent square and class dojo) to aid parents/teachers in communication. Instead of calling the school and trying to reach their child's teacher, parents can send an instant message to the teacher, or vice versa. School staff, such as lunch workers and librarians, use computers to help them keep track of the students who have checked out a book or received their lunch.

Future of computers in education

    While computers have been used in educational settings pre-pandemic, the closure of schools brought forth an even greater dependency on computer technology. Students and teachers were required to commit to a 100% online platform system for learning that brought forth innovative and effective learning methods during the school's closure. Therefore, many schools have opted to continue an in-person/online learning program to meet the student's needs. For example, my son (who is only in kindergarten) is expected to bring his chrome book to class every day because 50% of his classwork is still online.

Importance of being computer literate as an employee

    It is crucial for workers who work in education to be computer literate because learning/teaching has become increasingly dependent on technology. People or teachers who can efficiently use a computer can perform more than people who do not know how to use a computer. For example, if a teacher is required to manage student grade records and does not have a computer, they are forced to use a pen and a paper to input the data manually; however, teachers can access programs and services that make their job easier. Another reason teachers/administrators need to be computer literate is because of the better student and parent engagement it offers.  

Trends in technology 

Based on the historical trends of technology in education, I believe that computer/technology use in schools with continue to dominate as new products develop. Regarding higher education, the use of e-platforms has become increasingly popular. So, I believe that online education will begin to conquer soon. What's your thought on computer technology in education?