How Ed Tech is Helping Teachers Teach and Students Learn
Gone are the days of a single computer class where we explored the Oregon Trail, searched for Carmen Sandiego or learned how to type with Mavis Beacon. With the ability to integrate technology into the classroom, teachers are now able to build individualized lesson plans and learning experiences that foster an inclusive learning environment for K-12 students at a variety of cognitive levels. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the ways technology in the classroom is positively impacting the education system.
What is the Best Way for Educators to use Technology to Teach?
Technology in the classroom is best used when it is integrated seamlessly into the curriculum. Avoid situations where the technology feels like a special event or an add-on. Using technology should feel second nature and not as though it was an afterthought.
Simple ways to incorporate technology
- Use a PowerPoint presentation to cover a topic
- Post homework assignments online via a Learning Management System
- Create an online classroom calendar with important upcoming dates
- Have students work together on project-based learning via a Google Doc or similar collaborative resource
- Assign students to add notes about each lesson on a classroom website that they help build
Though these tips may seem simple in nature, integrating technology in small ways ultimately helps prepare students for a digital-first world.
To find out more about technology in the classroom, join us at the next
Future of Education Technology Conference
How Technology Helps Students Learn
When implemented correctly, technology can become a force multiplier for students. From increased engagement in the classroom to helping students collaborate with their peers and teachers, ed tech is helping develop 21st century skills for students of all learning styles.
Students now have the ability to access the most up-to-date information on a given subject, play an interactive game that covers a subject or even watch a video to enhance their knowledge. Imagine learning about the Pyramids of Giza and then being able to virtually visit the Giza Plateau via Google Maps.
This keeps students engaged and looking forward to the learning process. Technology being incorporated in the classroom is helping foster a learning environment that eliminates the one- size-fits-all mentality and allows teachers to become more of an advisor and coach by creating personalized learning opportunities for their students.
Encouraging Digital Citizenship for Students
Digital citizenship skills are essential for students. When implemented into the classroom correctly, the negative effects of technology can be eliminated or greatly reduced. Digital citizenship refers to the responsible use of technology by everyone including how we act online, communicate with one another through devices and the frequency in which we utilize technology. These concepts are essential to students achieving digital literacy and can help prevent cyberbullying, keep them safe while online and prevent digital device addiction.
Final Thoughts
We’ve just scratched the surface on the ways technology is helping both teachers and students in the classroom. As technology evolves, teachers will be asked to adjust their teaching styles to these advancements and that also means students will have more in-depth, actionable education. The future of education technology is bright and it’s up to teachers to not only embrace it but effectively incorporate and utilize it to enhance the teaching and learning process.
To learn more about education technology and how it’s transforming the classroom, join us for the The Future of Education Technology Conference
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