Technology in the classroom, no matter how daunting it may seem, is becoming increasingly common in today’s society. According to a 2023 survey performed via ZipDo, 89% of K-12 instructors use educational technology in their classrooms (“Essential Technology In Education Statistics in 2023”, 2023).
Technology is always transforming education. According to the latest surveys,76% of students say that technology makes learning more engaging (EdWeek, “Technology in Schools: A Teacher Survey”, 2023) and 90% of teachers say that technology helps them to assess student learning more effectively (2023 State of Technology in Education Report, 2023).
Future educators need to be prepared to use technology successfully within the classroom, as it’s a powerful device for engaging students and enhancing learning effects. By informing the way to use technology effectively, you may create lesson plans that are more relevant, thrilling, and impactful for students, imparting each individual with the assistance they want to succeed, no matter their skills or learning styles.
Designing technology-enabled learning experiences
Imagine you are a student teacher, right out of college and keen to begin your profession. You’re excited to apply your understanding and creativity to lay out engaging learning experiences for your students. But you are a little worried; how do you ensure that your lessons are effective and that you use technology in a way that enhances learning, not just distracts from it?
That’s where designing technology-enabled learning experiences is available. This is an important skill for all educators, however, it is especially critical for brand new instructors who are entering a classroom that is increasingly integrated with technology.
To lay out effective and attractive technology-enabled learning experiences, begin with learning objectives. Then, think about how technology may be used to help students obtain them. However, one thing to note is that not all technologies are created identically. Some technologies are better suited for certain types of learning than others. For instance, if you need your students to work collaboratively on an assignment, you might want to apply to a cloud-based platform like Google Docs. If you want your students to exercise their math abilities, you may want to use an educational app like Khan Academy.
Once you have chosen the right technology, it is time to start designing enticing and interactive lessons for your students. Avoid having students read text or watch videos on a display screen. Instead, try to create activities that require students to think critically, solve problems, and create something new.
It is crucial to keep in mind that not all students are keen on the use of technology, so provide guidance when essential. This would possibly include giving students specific instructions on a way to use a selected tool, or providing them with practice opportunities before they use the technology in full.
Using technology to personalize learning for all students
However, you shouldn’t simply use technology for technology’s sake; it’s crucial to use it in a way that is fun and helpful for students. So, how do you do that?
Firstly, use technology in a way that allows students to select their own route. There are all forms of online learning systems and apps that let students select which subjects they want to study at their own pace. This is an extremely valuable experience for students to discover their pursuits and learn at any level. One way to go about this is to create a customized learning pathway for every student, making use of a learning management system (LMS). An LMS will track every student’s progress and provide them the following level of difficulty based on their average performance. Canvas, Blackboard, and Schoology are some of the most commonly used learning management systems.
Educators may additionally employ technology to offer students with real-time feedback. This can assist them in viewing their errors and improving their abilities. Think of a formative evaluation platform like Kahoot!, which gives students real-time feedback on their answers, wherein students can also compete with each other to answer questions correctly. Some other platforms like this include Quizzizz and Quizlet in which students can study various topics.
Lastly, technology could make learning fun! There are all kinds of video games and apps that would assist student’s learning in an amusing and engaging way. For example, there are academic games that can help students learn math, languages, and more. Furthermore, as an educator, there are many different ways you could present material using technology. Instead of giving students paper handouts or writing information on a whiteboard, teachers can utilize PowerPoint, Google Slides, Lumio by SMART, Smart Notebook, or Canva to create and share lessons in a more interactive way that is easy on the eyes.
Preparing students for the future of work with technology
So, how will we prepare students for the workforce filled with technology?
Educators can begin by coaching students on important digital competencies, along with using computer systems and using software. It is also vital to offer students opportunities to learn about new technologies and advancements; this could help students get ahead of the curve and be ready for the roles of the future.
Students who are inquisitive about a profession in education technology may want to consider becoming an instructional designer, curriculum designer, or customer success manager in an edtech company.
Instructional designers create and develop lesson plans, together with online courses, learning modules, and interactive simulations. They use their understanding of teaching and educational design ideas to create learnings that can be powerful and engaging.
Curriculum designers develop curriculum for schools and other instructional institutions. They work with instructors and different stakeholders to ensure that the curriculum is aligned with educational standards and that it meets the needs of students.
Customer success managers in edtech agencies assist customers in getting the most out of their products and services. They work with customers to recognize their wishes and goals, and they offer them guidance and schooling.
If you’re interested in learning more, come to the Center for Career Development and meet one-on-one with a Career Coach; we will let you develop a plan to reach your goals!
