Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 2024
Abstract
Schools across the country continue to face challenges with different student needs in the classroom as children are surrounded by technology outside of school, have lower attention spans, and society continues to push inclusion. Research has shown that student engagement and success are based on the resources used to teach them. This study aims to identify the impact technology has in the classroom, the benefits of active learning, changes with inclusion, and how family involvement impacts student learning so that educators will benefit. Based on a literature review on the impact of active learning and technology usage in the classroom, an observational study was done in an elementary classroom in north central Iowa. Student response showed that modern learning strategies are more effective in ensuring participation, focus, engagement, and success. The results indicate that active learning and technology both have a positive impact on learning in today’s classrooms. Responses from students indicated that they are less engaged without technology, are less likely to participate, and do not maintain focus when taught using traditional teaching methods. Due to the results, it is recommended that schools continue to change their teaching methods in accordance with new societal trends as the needs of students continue to change. Further research is needed to evaluate student scores and the differences in engagement between grade levels using traditional and modern learning strategies.