Technology, Digital Media, and Curriculum Integration

Why are Digital Media and Educational Software Applications Important for Education?

Extensive research has shown that when properly integrated, digital media and educational has the potential to affect education in many dramatic ways. Digital media applications are highly effective teaching tools. Studies indicated that students retain approximately 2o percent of what they see; 30 percent of what they hear';and 50 percent of what they see and hear. Surprisingly to me when a student has a chance to hear, see and interact with the learning environment, he can retain as much as 80 percent of the information. Students are motivated and engaged in their learning and it has been directly linked to an increase in student outcomes and reduce drop out rates.
Educational software applications enrich the learning process by providing individualize instruction and exploration; which allows students to examine their skills in a risk-free environment; and provide instant feedback, testing, and review. They are available in many different designs, forms and curriculum levels, and are correlated to state standards. The use of digital media and educational software can increase students motivation, comprehension and retention.