How Schools Balance Technology And Set Guidelines In A Digital World

How schools balance technology and set guidelines in a digital world

- Meagan Church

Let’s face it, classrooms today don’t resemble the classrooms of our childhoods. Gone is the chalkboard as the main communication tool. Now students have technology at their fingertips instead of one or two computers in the back of the classroom. While tablets, laptops and the like can certainly benefit and support education, they can also serve as a distraction and deterrent. So how do educators navigate this ever-evolving tech world?

Integrating technology and education in a safe and responsible way is a priority for schools. Many schools have adopted a 1:1 technology program — especially in the upper grades — where each student has their own device.

Balancing Technology and Curriculum Needs

“Charlotte Latin School is in the seventh year of its 1:1 iPad program, which now serves students in grades three through 12,” says Alan Becker, educational technology department head at Charlotte Latin School. “In order to blend classroom technology into a traditional learning environment, Charlotte Latin relies on its experienced faculty, key technology personnel, and a robust digital citizenship program. e faculty are supported by Latin’s educational technologists, specialists who help to integrate iPads and other technology into classrooms in ways that enhance student learning without making technology the driver of the curriculum.”