Educational Technlogy Blog

We, as Christian educators, follow a path designed for us. We must teach both knowledge and social responsibility that aligns with our faith and relationship with Christ. Technology plays a crucial role in learning, connecting students through smartboards, online platforms, and various applications. Using these, we as Christians (and educators) can use opportunities from these to help guide students to be socially responsible.

Using Digitial Tools as a Disciple

It is the Christian mission in education to “to glorify God, teach students to love him, integrate biblical truth into learning, help students to love their neighbour, and to live a life of service to God” (VanBrugge, 2017). We can use Google Classroom or another discussion board(like Canvas) to share devotionals, scripture prompts, or lead discussions that align with biblical values. This enables technology to serve as a platform for spreading the gospel.

Digital Citizenship

Colossians 3:23 tells us to “work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (New International Version, 2011). That applies to how we act online. In platforms like Zoom, or Canvas, teachers can demonstrate respectful digital communication, proper citation of online resources, and respectful peer feedback.

Carr-Chellman and Rowland (2016) share that technology use in education must be guided by intentional design and ethical purpose rather than novelty. This means teachers should integrate digital citizenship lessons into everyday topics. This can help students see biblical standards involved in online use.

Social Media

Social media can be a tool or a stumbling block as a Christian. We can use social media to share our good fortunes and help others. It can be a place to “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”(New International Version, 2011, Matthew 5:16). Christian eductors can guide and support students to use social media to encourage others, and celebrate acts of kindness while also teaching about what not to share.

Technology can be a helpful tool in education, but it is also a mission for us as educators to support students with Christian values. This can ensure that they can be responsible digital citizens.

References

Carr-Chellman, A. A., & Rowland, G. (Eds.). (2016). Issues in technology, learning, and instructional design: Classic and contemporary dialogues. Routledge.

New International Version Bible. (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)

VanBrugge, W. (2017). The purpose of Christian education. Christian Study Library. https://www.christianstudylibrary.org/article/purpose-christian-education