Technology finds important role in class

By John Kennedy

Staff Writer

Publication Date: 11/28/2006

In the classroom, new technology is finding more important roles when it comes to educating students.

More professors are creating their lectures as PowerPoint presentations, which allows them to combine visual aids with their lecture, and are using computers in other ways to run their classes.

Nicholas Rauh, associate professor of foreign language and literature, uses his personal Web site in the classroom to post lecture notes and messages for his students.

"Having the material up and getting the messages out has increased the dialogue in class," said Rauh.

Using visual aids, such as a 3-D model of the Roman forum or slides of ancient pottery, helps enhance students' learning abilities, said Rauh.

"It enables the viewers, whether they're specialists or non-specialists, to analyze a problem through visual or spatial means rather than just through text," he said.

Some students feel the increase in technology has been a good thing when it comes to learning in the classroom. Bryan Trabert, a freshman in the College of Technology, said he enjoys the new technology.

"It's easier to take notes," said Trabert. "It's better because the professor is not in your way when you're taking notes."

As technology continues to change, certain aspects are being cut back or eliminated at Purdue. The University is no longer installing projector boxes at the back of classrooms; instead, the University is relying upon professors to post images on computers.

With the new technology available to more professors, some students believe there will always be a place for chalkboards and projectors in classrooms.

"It depends on the teacher," said Rui Zhou, a senior in the School of Mechanical Engineering. "For some classes, it's better on the blackboard because you can see the teacher working the problem out."