Students are often very well-versed in social media apps, but may still struggle with using tech applications that would be used in a classroom setting. Some students take computer classes in grade school, while other middle and high schools may not provide that opportunity. By the time students get to college, they may not be comfortable asking about how to use a program if they feel like they are expected to already know how to. As college professors are realizing that students are falling behind in this area, some are teaching about the applications in class or are providing videos so that students have them to refer to.

Some professors may feel like teaching about these tech programs may not be their responsibility. Or, they may not want to teach about “basic” applications in their class. But, according to this article, there’s a few things that teachers can do to get students on track.

• They can give students opportunities to explore applications without grading their work.
• Teachers could encourage students to watch video guides, from the company Pluralsight, on certain computer applications.
• Certain college campuses may have Digital Literacy Learning Spaces where students could be referred to for training.

It’s crucial for teachers to get through to students and to help them with tech applications when needed, because frustrations with technology can actually cause students to drop courses or out of school. It’s important to keep students up to speed and to be a teacher that makes their students feel comfortable with coming to them with questions.