How can you use technology to teach literacy and numeracy skills?

1 Benefits of technology

Technology can provide numerous advantages for teaching and learning literacy and numeracy skills. Students can access a range of resources, such as e-books, videos, podcasts, games, and simulations, that are tailored to their learning styles, preferences, and levels. Technology also enables differentiation and personalization by allowing students to work at their own pace and choose their own topics and tasks. Moreover, it can help enhance motivation and engagement by making learning more entertaining, interactive, and relevant to students' interests and experiences. Finally, technology can help develop 21st century skills like critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and digital literacy that are necessary for success in the modern world.

2 Challenges of technology

Technology can also present some challenges for teaching and learning literacy and numeracy skills, such as the need for access to devices, software, internet connection, and technical support which may not be available or affordable for all schools, teachers, and students. Additionally, it requires more time and effort from teachers to plan, implement, and evaluate technology-based activities, as well as to deal with potential issues and distractions. Moreover, technology can create potential gaps and inequalities by excluding or disadvantaging students who have limited or no access to technology or who have different levels of digital skills and confidence. Lastly, it can replace or reduce the role of the teacher by relying too much on technology to deliver instruction, assessment, and feedback, while neglecting the human and social aspects of learning.

3 Tips for using technology

To maximize the benefits of teaching literacy and numeracy skills through technology, it's important to consider several tips. Start by focusing on your learning objectives and outcomes, and choose the technology that best suits your purpose and context. Additionally, strive to find a balance between using technology and other methods and strategies. Model and scaffold the use of technology, providing clear instructions and expectations for students. Furthermore, monitor and evaluate the use of technology, collecting feedback from students. Finally, don't leave the technology to do all the work; check for understanding, progress, and challenges, and adjust your practice accordingly.

4 Examples of technology

Technology can be used to teach literacy and numeracy skills in many ways. For example, students can create digital stories using apps or websites, which helps them develop writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills. Math games can also be used to reinforce math skills and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, students can make podcasts to practice their speaking, listening, writing, and research skills. Finally, simulations can be used to explore real-world phenomena and develop math and science skills. All of these activities can help students build creativity, imagination, communication, collaboration, inquiry, and investigation skills.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?