Since the introduction of digital tools in education, teachers have been incorporating them in various ways which has positively affected how they teach. However, the application of technology isn’t immediate. Teachers must participate in professional development in order to learn how to use these tools properly and with great efficacy. Research has shown that learning can be positively affected “by the level of capability of teachers to use digital learning tools and resources effectively” (IFC, 2015). This includes being comfortable with technology and becoming proficient with many devices, such as iPads, Chromebooks, as well as various operating systems and learning management systems like Canvas, Schoology, or Google Classroom. This may be overwhelming at first for some teachers, but the results will be well worth the time spent. Through further practice, teachers will become familiar with the several assistive technology settings offered within these digital tools, which will allow them to differentiate their lessons, facilitating the ongoing process of nurturing student success.

I have seen how professional development has improved the use of Actively Learn in my school. This digital tool allows teachers to assign resources to their students, where they can either use the instructional materials contained in the software, or modify them according to their students’ needs. Before the teachers attended the professional development webinars, they were very unsure how to apply Actively Learn in their lessons, but once they attended a one-on-one tutorial with the consultant, they became familiar with its capabilities and have provided positive feedback regarding its use.

Students have also benefited with the application of technology while learning because it allows them to “build skills in interactivity and collaboration, critical thinking and leadership” (IFC, 2015). In addition, these tools make learning engaging for the students, which encourages them to participate and have fun while learning. Kahoot or Gimkit are great examples of digital tools that allow for student participation in a fun atmosphere. Gone are the days of rote learning strategies and boring memorization techniques.

Remote learning has increased the need for tools that engage students. Occasionally, it has been difficult to get students to verbally answer questions during a Zoom lesson. However, recently I’ve been using Nearpod with my students as another way for them to actively participate in my lessons. I’ve noticed an increase in participation and have been able to refer to the reports at the end of the Nearpod lesson to see the students’ progress and check for their understanding.

Eventually, when it’s safe to go back to school full-time, the use of these tools will not go away. Since it has been shown that “digital learning and teaching can benefit learners, teachers, and schools (IFC 2015),” their use will continue far into the future. An added benefit in particular is the ability to attend school on a snow day (after all snow days have been used up). I saw this happen in my school only a few months ago!

References

ICF Consulting Services, Ltd. (2015, November). Literature Review on the Impact of Digital Technology on Learning and Teaching. Scottish Government. Retrieved March 21, 2021, from https://www.gov.scot/publications/literature-review-impact-digital-technology-learning-teaching

Frequent professional development is really important because improvements are constantly being made to these digital tools, and teachers must be aware of these updates and how to use them as soon as they become available. This will help to eliminate wasted class time and frustration. If you use Google Classroom, here are some future updates slated for this year.

I think the pandemic has proven technology cannot replace in-person learning. Many students need the physical classroom environment, which allows them to see and talk to their teachers and classmates without staring through a screen. It's taking a toll on the emotional well-being of everyone involved - students, teachers, and even parents. Everyone is lacking the personal connection and school community that is part of a well-balanced education.