A New Era in Educational Technology: Tech Leaders’ Predictions

     Increased focus on k-12 learning outcomes and the recent surge in the use of educational technology could potentially merge, prompting a new era in teaching and learning. For a recent article in the online journal Transforming Education Through Technology, staff writer Dian Schaffhauser interviewed several of the nation’s technology leaders to get their insights into the future of educational technology. ​

     Jim Szafranski, CEO of  Prezi suggests that teachers will begin to shift their instructional practices from live presentations to pre-recorded segments that can be shared with other educators. He believes that this will allow educators more freedom to address individual needs during classroom time. Erik Heinrich, Education IT leader of the telecommunications company CommScope, asserts that it is time for the nation to “finally realize that connectivity is becoming as important to students' education as their textbooks.” ​

     Megan O'Reilly Palevich, Head Laurel Springs School suggests that now is the time to begin replacing scheduled classroom meeting times with flexible learning schedules. Such a change, she suggests, could help to improve student independence, confidence, and engagement with the subject matter. Rich Henderson, Director of Global Education Solutions for Lenovo points out that esports, such as the popular “Fortnite” and “Call of Duty,” will find their ways into the STEM curriculum. He believes that this could contribute to student development of collaboration, problem solving, social inclusion, and a range of other interpersonal skills. ​

“Fortnite” and “Call of Duty,” will find their ways into the STEM curriculum.

     Finally, Jenn Mitchell, Director, K-12 Product Marketing for Instructure promotes greater school system investment into assessment management systems (AMS) that are designed to provide real-time data concerning student achievement and academic challenges. Schaffhauser's article includes many more insights from today’s technology technology leaders, including the use of robotics to assist with early childhood education. To read the full article, click here. ​