In a world where nothing is constant but change, we can’t deny the

fact how technology helps us to make our lives easier. We can’t deny the fact

that it makes the students’ as well as the teachers’ lives way much better

than with those old times. But even so, we can’t also deny the fact that it has

also been a struggle to some teachers who are not used in utilizing

technology.

In fact, research said that more or less fifty percent of teachers do not

routinely use technology in their teaching practices, primarily due to factors

like limited access to devices, poor internet connectivity, and inadequate

training in using educational technology tools. Especially those teachers ages

40 and older, because in their generation, technology has not yet been made

and widespread.

According to my interviews with some teachers, back in their times,

they find it hard to do their research study and to gather some information in

academics because they have to open the books from the library reading

cover to cover just to get the information that they needed. Whereas now, in

just one click we can find many sources and information that we need for our

studies.

Additionally, we can use various online learning platform now that we

can utilize for easy access. The most common online learning platform that I

personally have is the google classroom (GCR) where teachers can post

some announcements and also some tasks. It’s like the alternative of pen
and paper during face to face and traditional quizzes and exams. Because in

this part, the teachers are not going to compile and check those thick papers

and their tables would no longer be messy and full of papers because it’s

already in their laptops. It’s also positive in a way that the papers can no

longer be lost because we can see to the google classroom if the student has

submitted an output or not.

The main objective of this paper is to examine the positive and the

negative or the challenges in utilizing technology in education and to also

explore some possible solutions on how we are going to overcome issues

such as; limited access to devices, poor internet connection, lack of training

for teachers.

As a college student who also uses technology and who finds

technology useful in today’s time, I have asked many of my co-students on

their experiences about this, especially to students from Kolehiyo ng

Pantukan where the blended-learning is applied. I have asked them on how

they are going to keep going even if they’re living from far flung areas

because even if I, myself, wanted this kind of setup, I can’t also stop from

thinking on how these people survived from the blended learning modalities.

But most of them would consistently say, “if there’s a will, there’s a way.”

The very reason why they keep going to some exposures of technology just

to survive. I can honestly say that I have to admit, I can’t live without

technology. No matter what, I always strive to upgrade and also to update

software just to be “updated” with the world’s newest technology. But as

they said, too much is not good. We are very busy exploring to the internet,

and how wide the technology is to the point that we forget that we are in a

real world.

Though technology has undeniably brought immense convenience to

students, revolutionizing the way they learn, access information, and complete

academic tasks. According to Selwyn (2016), digital tools have enabled students to

engage in self-directed learning, access vast online resources, and collaborate with

peers beyond geographical boundaries. Similarly, Prensky (2010) emphasizes that

the integration of technology in education enhances student engagement and

learning efficiency, allowing them to process information more interactively and

effectively.

However, while students reap the benefits of technological advancements,

many teachers, especially those who are not technology-capacitated, struggle to

adapt. As Mishra & Koehler (2006) point out, educators who lack digital literacy face

difficulties in implementing technology-driven pedagogies, leading to frustration

and inefficiency in the classroom. Furthermore, studies by Ertmer & Ottenbreit-

Leftwich (2013) suggest that the digital divide among teachers not only hinders

their ability to teach effectively but also creates a gap in teacher-student

interactions, as students become more reliant on digital platforms. This growing

disparity highlights the need for continuous teacher training and institutional

support to ensure that all educators, regardless of their technological proficiency,

can effectively integrate digital tools into their teaching strategies.

There are so many barriers when utilizing technology. One of this is the

lack of adequate infrastructure and resources. According to Hew and Brush

(2007), limited access to technological tools, unreliable internet connections,

and outdated software hinder the effective integration of technology in

education. Schools in underfunded areas often struggle with providing

students and teachers with the necessary devices and digital resources,

making technology-enhanced learning difficult.

Another major obstacle is the lack of teacher training and confidence in

using digital tools. Ertmer and Ottenbreit-Leftwich (2010) emphasize that

many educators, especially those unfamiliar with technology, feel

unprepared to incorporate digital platforms into their teaching, leading to

resistance or ineffective use of available tools. Additionally, student-related

challenges such as digital distractions and unequal access to personal

devices create further complications. As Kay et al. (2019) highlight, students

may use technology for non-educational purposes during lessons, reducing

engagement and productivity. Moreover, disparities in students’ access to

personal digital devices can widen the educational gap, leaving some

learners at a disadvantage.

Finally, the rapid evolution of technology presents a challenge, as

teachers and schools must continuously adapt to new advancements, often

without sufficient support (Tondeur et al., 2017). Addressing these barriers

requires comprehensive institutional efforts, including professional

development for educators, investment in digital infrastructure, and policies

promoting equitable access to technology.

 The barriers to utilizing technology in the classroom has made a huge

impact towards teaching and learning process affecting students, teachers,

and the overall educational system in bot immediate and long-term ways.

In the short term, the lack of infrastructure and digital resources limits

students’ access to technology-enhanced learning, creating disparities in

educational opportunities. According to Hew and Brush (2007), students in

underfunded schools may struggle to complete technology-based

assignments or engage in interactive learning experiences, leading to a gap

between those who have access to digital tools and those who do not.

Additionally, teachers who lack technological proficiency may

experience difficulty in integrating digital tools effectively, resulting in

inefficient lesson delivery (Ertmer & Ottenbreit-Leftwich, 2010). This can lead

to reduced student engagement and lower academic performance, as

learning may become passive rather than interactive. Furthermore,

digital distractions, such as students using technology for non-educational

purposes, can decrease classroom productivity and create discipline issues

(Kay et al., 2019).

Over time, these challenges contribute to systemic issues in education.

A persistent digital divide can widen the academic achievement gap,

particularly affecting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. If schools

fail to address technological disparities, students who lack access to digital

tools may struggle to develop essential 21st-century skills such as digital

literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving (Tondeur et al., 2017).

For teachers, the absence of proper training and professional

development may lead to resistance toward adopting new teaching methods,

limiting innovation in education. This reluctance can result in outdated

instructional approaches that fail to meet the evolving needs of students in a

technology-driven world.

On a broader scale, if educational institutions do not adapt to

technological advancements, they risk producing graduates who are

unprepared for modern workplaces that require digital competencies. The

lack of effective technology integration can weaken the overall quality of

education, leading to lower national competitiveness in a global economy

where digital skills are increasingly vital.

Addressing these barriers requires continuous investment in

infrastructure, teacher training, and policies that promote equitable access

to technology to ensure that education remains relevant and effective in the

digital age.

As someone who is comfortable with using technology, I can never

argue the fact that sometimes these issues and negative effects of

technology usage has brought a massive impact towards people. But I also

have come to realized the unfair that some students experienced and how

unfair it is for some teachers who are not knowledgeable enough to handle
to such situations, hence adjusting to a new environment very far from what

they used to – the traditional way. Because no matter what, it will always

leave a huge difference and negative effects throughout the learning

process. Imagine, if teachers don’t know how to use technology in a

classroom setting, especially in today’s generation, how can she be able to

adapt the students’ needs in order for them to get interactive, participative,

and effective.

As far as I can observe, students nowadays prefer to participate if they

can relate to the teacher’s way of teaching, because it’s their forte, that’s

the way they learn and that’s the only way that the teacher can caught

his/her students’ attention.

I am an ESL Teacher and my students are very knowledgeable about

using technology even if they are two or three times younger than me. At

first, I am confident that I am way much techy than them, but when they

introduced me with some apps that I can use for school that I thought

uncommon but it is a popular app, I have come to realized that there are so

many things that I have to learn, that what my learnings now is just little

compared to my students. I know for sure that I could easily apply what I’ve

learned especially in terms of technology because I really love to explore

when talking about these matters. But I found it hard to believed that the

more I look for something to learn for, the more I realized that I don’t know

much. I know that I am not the only one who experienced such things, but I

think we can work on it if we just strive hard for success. What I did at that
time was, I looked for those apps that my students mentioned, and I tried to

open them and I even tried how to used them one by one. It’s very hard to fit

in to society where you’re unsure if you belong or not.

In the teacher’s perspectives, in order for them to know, they must

learn. They have to learn what’s popular and known these days. Because

even if the school or even the education department will have a training for

teachers regarding the utilization of technology in a classroom, if they do not

practice by themselves, it’s all useless. Because learning without trying to

apply it in real life scenarios is still nothing. Having a training is not enough,

may be teachers should learn from their own also. May be teachers should

start small with basic technology.

There are several YouTube tutorials on how are you going to do this and

that. There are many step-by-step tutorials that even non-techy teachers

could catch up and it’s very easy to follow. Also, it’s free to ask questions if

you are confused with something. There are teachers especially the younger

ones, who are experts in using technology so you can approach them and

you ask for help if you can’t do it anymore. Another thing, make a room to

accept that you don’t know everything, and knowledge can’t be defined on

how far you’ve come, how old you are, but it’s also about accepting help

even to your students. Because in real life, it’s okay to ask for help and

guidance to your students on how to fix the error in technology, you don’t

have to hide your struggles. We are not fool for not knowing much, we just

lack of exploring things, especially to the evolving technology.

 To address the growing need for technology in education, governments

should prioritize policy-level changes, such as increased investment in

educational technology and subsidized internet access. Many students,

especially those in remote areas, struggle with limited or no internet

connectivity, making it difficult for them to keep up with their peers. If the

government provides better infrastructure and ensures affordable internet, it

would significantly bridge the digital divide and create equal learning

opportunities for all.

Aside from infrastructure, teacher professional development is just as

crucial. Many educators, especially those who didn’t grow up with

technology, struggle to integrate digital tools into their teaching. Schools and

institutions should offer training programs that equip teachers with essential

digital literacy skills. A teacher who knows how to effectively use online

resources, interactive platforms, and learning management systems can

create a more engaging and efficient classroom. Simply giving educators

access to technology isn’t enough; they need proper guidance to make the

most of it.

Collaboration between schools and tech companies can also play a big

role in ensuring that classrooms have the necessary resources and support.

Many private companies are willing to sponsor or provide discounted

software and tools for education, but schools and local governments need to

take the initiative in forming these partnerships. By working together, both

sectors can develop practical solutions to improve digital learning

environments without making it financially burdensome for schools.

Finally, education systems should be open to exploring alternative

models of learning, such as hybrid learning and flipped classrooms. These

approaches allow students to learn at their own pace while still receiving

guidance from their teachers. Instead of relying solely on traditional lectures,

students can study content online and use class time for discussions, group

activities, and hands-on learning. This method not only enhances

engagement but also prepares students for a world where independent

learning and digital competency are essential.

Incorporating these changes won’t happen overnight, but they are

necessary steps to ensure that education keeps up with the digital age. If we

want students to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world, we

must be willing to adapt, invest, and innovate.

Another essential step toward revolutionizing education is reshaping

the mindset of educators and students alike. The reality is that technology is

no longer just an option—it is a necessity. Schools that refuse to embrace

digital transformation risk leaving their students unprepared for the future.

However, it’s not just about providing devices or internet access; it’s about

changing the way we view learning. We must move away from the idea that

education only happens within the four walls of a classroom. Knowledge is

everywhere, and technology has made it possible for students to learn

beyond textbooks, beyond lectures, and beyond borders. When education

becomes a continuous, evolving experience rather than a rigid system, we

empower students to become lifelong learners.

At the heart of all these changes is the belief that every child,

regardless of their background, deserves an education that is rich, engaging,

and filled with opportunities. A teacher who embraces technology, even with

struggles and challenges, is showing their students the value of adaptability

and perseverance. A government that invests in digital education is giving

hope to millions of children who dream of a better future. And a society that

values innovation in learning is shaping a generation that will lead with

knowledge, creativity, and resilience.

Students also play a crucial role in overcoming the challenges posed by

technology in education. While schools and teachers work to integrate digital

tools, students must take responsibility for developing self-regulation skills

and digital literacy. In an era where information is readily accessible, knowing

how to navigate, filter, and critically analyze online content is just as

important as the knowledge itself. Students must learn to manage their time

effectively, avoid distractions, and use technology as a tool for growth rather

than entertainment alone. By fostering self-discipline and a proactive

approach to learning, students can maximize the benefits of digital education

and become independent, lifelong learners.

 Throughout this discussion, we have explored the necessity of

government investment in educational technology, the importance of

teacher training programs, the value of school-tech company collaborations,

and the benefits of alternative learning models like hybrid and flipped

classrooms. We have also emphasized the need for students to develop self-

regulation and digital literacy to make the most of these opportunities. The

integration of technology in education is not just about modernization—it is

about bridging gaps, enhancing engagement, and preparing students for a

rapidly evolving world.

As we move forward, the challenge is not just to introduce technology

into classrooms but to use it meaningfully and equitably. Education must be

a space where innovation is embraced, where no student is left behind due

to digital limitations, and where teachers feel empowered rather than

overwhelmed by change. The future of learning depends on our collective

effort—governments, educators, students, and communities must work

together to ensure that technology becomes a bridge rather than a barrier.

Let us not fear change but drive it with purpose because education is

not just about adapting to the present—it is about shaping the future.

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