Technology can be an important bridge between quiet, underachieving students and their more outgoing peers. We have only begun to learn how both teachers and students are finding new opportunities to educate one another. Opportunities on both sides have only been possible with the use of computers or technology in the classroom.
Motivation and self esteem go somewhat hand in hand. Kids who are motivated to succeed and complete their projects tend to have an easier time collaborating with others, but it may not be so cut and dry. The reality is that all kids specialize in certain areas; some kids are just more willing to step outside their comfort zone than others.
Computers also tend to give feedback in more immediate terms. For example, coding can be compiled and executed within the same day a project starts. This lets students see their progress for themselves, which is a major motivating factor. Often, students will choose to work on a project over leisure time.
Technology is also becoming more affordable, which increases the number of students who have access to computers. More schools in poorer parts of urban areas are able to equip students with learning tools, test student performance and look for areas to improve.
There is also the increased confidence that comes with mastering new technology, which schools constantly challenge both students and teachers to learn. When students learn new skills and demonstrate their abilities, it tends to raise their sense of self worth. The more technology investments we make in schools, the more importance students will place on their own work.
About the Author: Samuel Phineas Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media and Telecom group. You may contact Phin on his Samuel Phineas Upham website or Twitter.