Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Technologies Tool
The purpose of this tool, which is divided into two tables, is to help you select appropriate technologies by
identifying the key advantages and disadvantages of each one. We encourage you to add your own list of pros and
cons as you use each technology and as new technologies are invented. One potential general disadvantage of many
of the new or extended technologies is that they require special wiring that schools may not have. Other possible
disadvantages include the following:
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Many new users fear technology
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Technology breakdowns can be disruptive and usually require experts to repair.
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Initial hardware, software, and online connection costs can be high.
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Equipment rapidly becomes outdated.
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Some schools misuse or underuse technology (e.g., for drill and practice only) or use it when a more
traditional technology may be even more effective.
Familiar Technologies
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Familiar Technology
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Advantages
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Disadvantages
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Adding machines
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Easy to use
Relatively inexpensive
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Limited functions
Outdated
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Art supplies (e.g., paint, brushes, crayons, canvas, Fun clay, wood, metal)
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Easy to use
Encourages creativity
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Can be messy
May be expensive
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Audiotapes and audiotape players
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Portable
Easy to use
Relatively inexpensive
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Limited to recorded sound
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Audiotape recorders
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Portable
Easy to use
Relatively inexpensive
Promotes interviewing, journaling
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Limited to recorded sound
Transcribing is tedious
Can be difficult to hear
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Calculators
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Easy to use
Reliable
Time saving
Most are inexpensive
Some have special functions
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May prevent kids from learning important math concepts if used improperly by the instructor
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Cameras (analog)
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Easy to use
Promotes creativity
Creates high resolution images
Portable
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Relatively expensive
Limited to still images
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©1997-99 North Central Regional Educational Laboratory
1-800-356-2735 NCRTEC
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