I just returned from the ISTE (International Standards in Technology Education) Conference in Philadelphia. I can remember when ISTE first started, so imagine my surprise to see the huge attendance (someone estimated 20,000), the hoards of technology gadgets, and the mini-theater style presentations by all the major technology players. The future of education certainly rests with technology. There are apps, websites, software, and hardware available for just about any facet of education. From robotics for STEM, to assistive technologies for students with disabilities, mobile apps for learning on the go, and devices and programs to assist with searches, writing, math, and reading. In many ways technology is achieving what educators have sometimes failed to do — it can present a highly engaging way for students to learn in their zone.
If you are not on board the technology train, it has left the station, I encourage you to get students involved in making decisions about the technologies that they believe will be the best purchases. Of course guidelines are needed, but instead of the rule of “no mobile devices,” for example, it might be wiser to consider how mobile devices can be used to support learning. Whether it is for calculations, research, communication, presentations, writing, websites, or data storage and retrieval, technology provides a highly engaging way to accelerate learning while preparing students for their digital futures.
Comments