21st Century Education by Emma

21st Century Education by Emma - January 2020 Scholarship Essay

Looking back on my last twelve years in public school, I can see just how much technology within the classroom has modified and improved education for myself and all the other students.
My entire life has been during a period of significant technological developments. Therefore, I have become a first-hand witness to exactly how technology affects all aspects of a classroom. Beginning with bulky computers in the computer lab of my grade school to HP Chromebooks in all backpacks throughout high school, the widespread use of technology has changed drastically.
Unlike the education of our parents, my generation cannot imagine lugging around large bags filled with textbooks and folders across campus. Nearly all of what we do, including homework, assignments, classroom projects, research, and quizzes are all performed online or a compatible software the school district provides. This makes everything we do far more convenient and accessible to everyone.
Research has never been faster or easier with 24/7 access to the internet. Unfortunately, now that nearly all students have access to communication with anyone in the world, some students may use this to get out of difficult work an easier way, it is also very helpful. For students who use the internet responsibly, there is endless information to learn.
Not only have computers been added to classrooms, but interactive boards, flight simulators, 3D printers, graphic design software, UAVs, and greenhouses are used by students across the board on a daily basis. Fortunately, my school district has the ability to afford and effectively use all of these. Each of these devices attracts students with very different interests and train them to become the very best in their field.
Without all of this, education is possible but would not be nearly as engaging or effective. There is now a class for every student’s interests and technology to move that student forward. Not everyone learns in the same fashion or the same content, but having unique classes allows each student to reach his or her maximum potential.