Emerging Technologies

Emerging Technologies
Tiffany Leonard
CSN

Emerging Technologies

Abstract
The following research shows multiple sources for those seeking information on emerging
technology, specific examples of these technologies being used at different grade levels and why
they affect the classroom.

Emerging Technologies

With the rapid growth and integration of technology in the classroom, it is important for
educators at any level to have access to information regarding emerging technology. Emerging
technology can be an ambiguous term, therefore for the purpose of this paper, herein emerging
technology will be considered as new and advancing forms of technology and software, aimed to
aid the teaching and learning processes in a classroom. The following research shows multiple
sources for those seeking information on emerging technology, specific examples of these
technologies being used at different grade levels and how they affect the classroom.
Emerging technology is not solely aimed towards older classrooms. Students as young as
Kindergarten are experiencing new-aged technology to assist in the learning process.
Technological tools can support a learner-centered and play-oriented early childhood curriculum
and promote relationship building among children, families, and the wider community (Minds).
One of the pieces of technology that are very useful in early childhood education is a
smartboard. Smartboards serve as interactive tools that allows students and teachers to personally
interact with lessons. They use special pens to draw on the board, and their work can be saved as
an image file and used later. Digital technologies and technology-supported activities align well
with a constructivist framework and curriculum that emphasizes learner centered exploration and
active meaning making learning in the classroom more effective (Spitsberg 20-21).
Along with interactive whiteboards, potable touch screen technological items are equally
interactive and offer a more individualized learning experience for students. The software chosen
for these portable devices should be carefully considered for each class and subject. Mobile
applications are often available for selected software. Mobile applications in the next-generation
digital learning environment will allow teachers to customize the learning experience for
students and will permit students to personalize the experience for themselves. These could be

Emerging Technologies

ultra-mobile-friendly and personalized LMS user interfaces; externally developed apps that are
appropriate for a particular assignment, instructor, or subject; or internally developed apps that
create campus-specific interaction and engagement experiences (Grajek). By having the hands on
experience with these types of technologies, students learning process will be enhanced. They
can make the teaching process easier because the material will be reinforced in an interacted
manner and are easily integrated at any level. The Software available for these types of
technologies include programs where students use their fingers or tools to input answers and
interact with programs. By having these technologies in the classroom the students can work in
groups or individually, creating a more personalized educational experience.
The theme of interactive experiences is heavily present in emerging technologies.
Gamification, which is game based learning, is an ever growing practice in classrooms today.
Emerging games act as an effective tool for scaffolding concepts and simulating real world
experiences (Briggs). SimArchitect is a simulation game and social connection site for architects
developed by IBM Center for Advanced Learning, where players are issued a request for
proposal by a fictitious client and must respond, conducting meetings with the client and team
and then proposing a solution (Briggs). Games like these are a great asset in older students such
as those in high school who are exploring the careers of their liking.
Overall, emerging technology such as smartboards, touch screens and gaming tools, when
integrated to the classroom, can have significant befits for the individual success of students.
Technological tools can support a learner-centered and play-oriented early childhood curriculum
and promote relationship building among children, families, and the wider community
(Wijekumar 370).

Emerging Technologies

Briggs, Saga. "10 Emerging Educational Technologies." InformED. N.p., 04 July 2016. Web. 7
Nov. 2016.
Grajek, Susan, and Betsy Reinitz. "Higher Education's Top 10 Strategic Technologies for 2015."
Educause.edu. EDUCAUSE, 12 Jan. 2015. Web. 07 Nov. 2016.
Minds, O. O. Meaningful Technology Integration in Early Learning Environments.
Spitsberg, I., Verti, M. J., Brahmandam, S., & Coulston, G. W. (2015). Capitalizing on Emerging
Technologies. Research Technology Management, 58(4), 17-27.
Wijekumar, K. (., Meyer, B. J., & Lei, P. (2013). High-fidelity implementation of web-based
intelligent tutoring system improves fourth and fifth graders content area reading
comprehension. Computers & Education, 366-379.