IELTS and TOEFL Speaking and Writing Topic: Technology for Learning – Agree or Disagree

IELTS and TOEFL Speaking and Writing: Technology for Learning – Agree or Disagree

In this video, we’ll answer a common IELTS and TOEFL question to help you to improve your writing and speaking skills.

Many teenagers rely on technology for learning. Is this a good or bad thing?

We’ll go through two example answers — one agreeing and one opposing — to help you learn how to structure your own response. You’ll also learn useful vocabulary and some topic suggestions.

By the end of this video, you’ll feel more confident in answering similar questions.

Download the PDF: For the full transcript of this video, including a complete advanced vocabulary list with definitions and topic suggestions click the link below.

Technology for Learning – Agree or Disagree

Here is the full transcript of the video:

Today many teenagers rely greatly on technology when learning. Is this a positive or negative development?

Advanced vocabulary in bold and advanced verbs in italics:

Response 1: Agreeing that it is a positive development

In recent years, it has become increasingly common for teenagers to rely on technology in their learning. While some may argue that this trend has detrimental effects, I believe it is ultimately a positive development for several reasons.

First and foremost, the accessibility of information has vastly improved due to technological advancements. Students now have immediate access to an unprecedented wealth of resources, such as online lectures, academic journals, and educational videos, which facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of various subjects. This enhanced access to knowledge enables teenagers to engage in self-directed learning, allowing them to study at their own pace and deepen their understanding of topics that interest them. Furthermore, the internet provides a platform for teenagers to connect with experts, participate in online forums, and access educational apps, all of which enhance their learning experience in ways that traditional classrooms cannot.

Secondly, the use of technology promotes the development of vital skills, including digital literacy, problem-solving, and critical thinking. By using various educational tools such as interactive simulations and online quizzes, students engage in active learning, which fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Moreover, technology provides an opportunity to integrate learning with real-world applications. For instance, teenagers can simulate scientific experiments, create digital art, or engage in programming—activities that develop their creativity and technical abilities.

In conclusion, the increasing reliance on technology in learning is a positive development as it enhances access to knowledge and encourages the development of essential skills. Given these advantages, it is clear that technology plays a crucial role in shaping the future of education and empowering teenagers to become independent and innovative learners.

Response 2: Disagreeing that it is a positive development

The widespread reliance on technology in teenagers’ education is often portrayed as a progressive development; however, I argue that this trend brings several negative consequences that cannot be overlooked.
One significant drawback of technology in learning is its tendency to distract students from their studies. With the constant presence of social media, video games, and other non-educational content, teenagers often find themselves distracted by unrelated online activities. This impedes their focus, making it difficult for them to retain important information and master complex concepts.

Additionally, the overuse of technology can result in a reduction of active, hands-on learning experiences, which are essential for reinforcing knowledge. Students may become too reliant on passive methods like watching videos or using educational apps, rather than engaging in critical thinking or practical exercises that truly enhance their learning. For instance, rather than conducting an experiment in a science lab, students might rely on virtual simulations or pre-recorded demonstrations, which fail to develop their practical skills and problem-solving abilities in real-life scenarios.
Another concern is the dependence on technology, which can hinder the development of essential cognitive skills. When teenagers rely heavily on digital tools such as calculators or spell checkers, they fail to develop vital mental abilities, such as problem-solving and memory retention. These tools may assist in the short term, but over time, they can diminish a student’s ability to think critically and independently.
Furthermore, the constant access to information via the internet can discourage deep, focused study, as students might jump from one topic to another without truly absorbing or reflecting on the material.

In conclusion, while technology can offer some educational benefits, its overreliance can have detrimental effects on teenagers' ability to focus, develop cognitive skills, and engage in deep learning. These disadvantages suggest that technology should be used in moderation, with careful consideration of its potential negative impact on young learners.

#IELTS #TOEFL #IELTSSpeaking #IELTSWriting #TOEFLSpeaking #TOEFLWriting #EnglishVocabulary #LearnEnglish #AdvancedVocabulary #IELTSPreparation #TOEFLPreparation