Purpose of Speech on Technology in Education
Listen to the following lecture excerpt delivered by Professor Jane Smith on the influence of technology in education:
Professor: Good morning, class. Today, we are delving into a subject that has generated considerable debate in recent years—the influence of technology on educational practices. While technology can enhance learning experiences tremendously, it also has limitations and challenges that we must consider. For instance, the accessibility of technology in various socioeconomic contexts can lead to a digital divide, which may disadvantage students from low-income backgrounds. Moreover, excessive reliance on technology may hinder the development of critical thinking and interpersonal skills. However, when integrated thoughtfully, technology can provide unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, collaborative projects, and global connectivity, thus preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce. As we move forward, we must engage critically with these technologies, assessing their impact while striving to ensure equitable access and promoting a balanced approach to learning that incorporates both traditional and digital methodologies.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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