Technology in school life has been an essential addition for at least the past two decades and during Covid-19, the meaning and application of remote learning changed beyond all recognition. However, in primary classes and in the case of younger students, it can be a challenge to not only utilize the right technological interventions but also to get the maximum benefit out of them. Here are some tips to implement new beneficial technology in school as a teacher, educator or administrator.
1. The Educator Must Be Well-Versed
Use of any software or technological intervention depends largely upon how skilled and familiar the teacher or educator is themselves with the device, software or program. For this reason, it is absolutely necessary that the school should fund proper training initiatives before launching the technology for students. Investing in these programs ensures that Catholic school education can effectively integrate new technologies in school life, enhancing the learning experience while maintaining high educational standards.
This will not only ensure that the technology is being used properly with all that it has to offer but that the educator is also comfortable and there is no time lag between lessons, assignments or term projects. Having a practice period or pilot testing especially if an edtech software for example is ambiguous regarding ideal age groups can be helpful in ensuring the technological initiative is just right for the students and the grade level it is being used for.
2. Technology in School Life is Not An Alternative
No edtech initiative should replace a dedicated teacher’s presence and teaching style. If technology tries to bridge the gap between educator and students, it will likely fall short and necessitate a thorough evaluation of other factors. Instead, technology should complement a skilled teacher’s approach, making it easier to manage tasks and meet individual student needs. By freeing up time, edtech allows teachers to better assess and nurture each student’s unique strengths and aptitudes for the best results.
3. All-Encompassing
Schools must select edtech carefully to ensure it supports diverse teaching methods and meets individual student needs. Institutions should clearly define the purpose of their edtech investments and ensure it performs effectively throughout the school year. While niche edtech can benefit specific programs, like those for English language learners, it should generally provide broad, useful applications.
Edtech programs must be evaluated for their effectiveness in remote or unconventional learning environments. It’s essential that students with special needs or particular constraints still receive valuable instruction and support through virtual classrooms.
4. The Technology in School Should be Exclusively Edtech
Technology used generally can sometimes be counterproductive such as students getting addicted to toxic online games or recreational browsing. The aim of the technology should be clear as well as entirely education-oriented so it can have the maximum benefit. While technology such as laminators for schools are needed to help students improve their learning materials, edtech should aim to enhance skills and retention as well as capability.
Many types of software that optimize school management for example may be poorly equipped for academic learning and use so evaluating beforehand the exact purpose and application of the technological initiative is very important. When investing in edtech, ensure it is age-appropriate and a good match for the learning level you are targeting.
5. Games And Virtual Reality
Video games, movies, and animation play a crucial role in the lives of children and teenagers. As technology evolves in schools, educational games and virtual reality (VR) learning—like virtual field trips or reenactments of historical events—are becoming popular tools for enhancing learning and retention. Platforms such as iThrive use simulation and VR technology to create scenarios that test problem-solving and critical thinking skills, while reinforcing various subjects.
The wide variety of online games offers educators numerous ways to engage students, who generally enjoy video games. Role-playing and simulation games teach students to think and react in different situations, helping them apply theoretical concepts from class in practical ways.
6. Video/Visual Aids
Visual learning aids like videos, animated clips, and interactive media engage younger learners with their colors, graphics, and movement. They stimulate imagination and help with recall during standardized testing. Many younger students, including those with special needs, find videos and interactive activities easier to understand than written texts. Effective edtech tools blend visual and textual elements to cater to different learning styles.
Edtech provides easy-to-use tools for basic video editing, helping students express their ideas for projects. Collaborative tools foster community and social skills by enabling teamwork. Even when learning from home, edtech facilitates communication between students and teachers, allowing for questions, feedback, and parental involvement. Social media can also enhance interaction among students, parents, and teachers on a limited scale.
