There are many benefits of Catholic education. For one, it is well-published that children who attend Catholic schools do better on standardized tests, according to America Magazine. Another hallmark of Catholic education is that more children go to a four-year university from Catholic schools than public institutions, according to Peoria Magazine. When it comes to making decisions about your children's education, it's best to consider these benefits as well as weigh the use of technology in the classroom.
The Heavy Use of Technology in Public Education
A recent body of research has explored the use of technology in the classroom and its potential for ill effects on children. Technology in the classroom was predicted to be a positive change. However, there are some new concerns about smartboards and other tools. We know, at a minimum, that the use of smartboards specifically has the potential to cause vision damage in children and adults alike.
One of the benefits of Catholic education is the minimal use of technology in the classroom in many of these private schools. Their education does not rely on its usage.
Equipment Malfunctions
Smartboards were supposed to be the catalyst to better education. However, a recent study by Harvard University found that classrooms outfitted with smartboards had technical issues with the boards 41% of the time. The study also found that these technical problems interrupted educational time because many teachers did not have a backup plan.
Equipment failure aside, there are other technical problems that many classrooms experience, like speakers that are not clear enough or loud enough to reach learners in the back of the room. Unfortunately, when education is tightly linked to technology, and it fails, so do the lessons being taught.
Lack of One-on-One Interaction
Teachers have complained that worrying about smartboard lessons, setting them up (which takes a significant amount of time compared to traditional lesson planning), and dealing with technology fails are keeping them from one-on-one instruction time with their students. In the U.S., according to Census Bureau Data, about 4.8 million children attend a preschool program. Even more students attend private elementary schools, and we know now more than ever that young children must receive one-on-one attention during their educational experience so their progress can be closely monitored.
The benefits of Catholic education include traditional teaching models focused on engaging children and meeting individual learning needs. If you're interested in providing your child with a well-rounded, technology-free private school education, contact Regina Pacis Academy today.
