Ed Tech Highlights and A Glimpse Ahead
Teachers are back in the classroom, reigniting the flame of learning for another academic year. Today, from 1:30–2:30 PM, I hosted an optional learning session titled “Navigating New Waves: Ed Tech Insights for Innovative Classroom Practices”. Five folks showed up (STEM Teacher, Librarian, ELA Specialist, Math Specialist & Third Grade Teacher)
Our Mission: To take a moment and ponder over the trajectory of educational technology. The goal was to grasp its growth from the last academic year and brainstorm ways to weave those learnings seamlessly into this year’s narrative.
Diverse tech resources were brought to the fore. These included tools that elevate accessibility. There was admiration for tools like voice-to-text and immersive reader, which exemplify how tech can make learning more accessible and enjoyable. A great example of leveraging the Immersive Reader tool was mentioned and that was instructing students to use it to read their OWN writing back to them as part of the editing process. As discussions deepened, the idea of exploring Khanmigo as a student tutoring tool surfaced. We learned about Securly, our go-to for device management and student web filtering. The team expressed keen interest in launching a Chromebook Bootcamp specifically tailored for our third graders, with Library and STEM integration.
A recurring theme was the thirst for knowledge. How do we embed more computer science skills for students throughout their academic year? What norms should be in place for assistive tech, and when do we decide a more structured plan is necessary?
The discussion also ventured into daily practicalities: the suitable amount of screen time for homework, the existing computer prowess students possess as they hop between grades, and the dream of incorporating a dedicated computer science class into the curriculum.
A particular area of concern was the use of platforms like Scratch. While its potential is recognized, there’s a call for clear guidelines to ensure its enriching, rather than distracting and super competitive. The conversation also touched on enriching Math Centers with diverse tech tools, not just relying on ST Math.
Lastly, the educators voiced a mutual observation: the need for continued guidance on healthy tech habits for students. This spans from defining tech expectations during free times like recess to addressing the evident challenges of screen addictions. When asked to crystallize their insights for the upcoming school year, the words “consistency”, “intentionality”, and the importance of structured guides stood out.
As we move through this week’s tech journey, I am excited for the next stop: “Rise & Reflect on AI in Education.” Our Guiding Question will be: In the context of education, how do you envision the role of artificial intelligence (AI) enhancing or transforming student learning experiences? Here’s to a week filled with discovery and growth!
