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How Technology in the Classroom Is

Shaping the Future of Education

by Kimberley Tierney

1. Introduction
2. Benefits of tech in the classroom
3. How to use tech in the classroom
4. Assistive technology in the classroom
5. Classroom tech enables differentiated learning
6. The pros and cons of tech in the classroom
7. The current situation


  

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If you’re a teacher, you’ve likely heard about all the ways technology can support
you in the classroom. Whether it’s tablets and smart boards or the internet and
social media, technology influences the modern classroom in too many ways to
count. But most teachers don’t get a manual that shows them how to effectively use
and implement this kind of technology in the classroom.

This guide will help you understand how technology can empower you and your
students. We’ll explore how digital tools can help teachers and students succeed,
and how you can use that tech in a safe, professional way. Learning how technology
is shaping the world of learning will help you see how it fits into your specific
needs and your goals as an educator.

This guide will cover

 The benefits of technology in the classroom. Learn how technology

improves tasks like attendance-taking and standards-based lesson planning
while preparing students for the future.
 How to use technology in the classroom. Discover the power of devices for
more engaging, interactive lessons for students of all ages.
 Technology grants. How to find, apply for, and obtain grants for using
technology in the classroom.
 Assistive technology in the classroom. See how technology can expand
access to learning for special-needs students.
 Using technology for differentiated instruction. Leverage classroom data to
create personalized learning experiences for each student.
 The pros and cons of classroom technology. What are the main arguments
against using classroom tech, and what benefits outweigh these challenges?
 The current state of classroom technology. Find out how technology has
shaped contemporary education — and where we’re headed.

Technology can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ll show you how to
get started with the right tools for you and your students.
Benefits of technology in the
Classroom
There are a multitude of tools, devices, and apps specifically designed to
help teachers do what they do best. Most teachers who use technology in
the classroom will agree: It makes their lives easier.

Unsurprisingly, one of the fastest-growing education trends is the increasing

use of laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices for learning, says Steelcase.
Smartphones in particular are becoming an increasingly common tool in the
classroom, and more students expect to have essential information available
on mobile.

6 ways classroom technology helps teachers

It’s clear that both teachers and students are taking advantage of all that
technology has to offer. But how exactly can technology support teachers?

Automating everyday tasks. One of the greatest benefits of using

technology in the classroom is that it saves time.

A number of apps are designed to help teachers take attendance so the task
doesn’t take time out of their day. Students can mark their names on a
tablet when they enter the door, even if the teacher is busy preparing for
class.

Other tasks can be eliminated completely: Photocopying and stapling is no

longer necessary when students can access their assignments online.

Simplified grading. Grading is a breeze with online tools that instantly

interpret test answers on a mass scale. Many apps give teachers status
reports so they can gain a bird’s-eye view of each student’s progress. These
reports also pinpoint areas of improvement, allowing teachers to identify
learning struggles earlier in the year. In addition to making grading easier
for teachers, technology helps students get the help and attention they
need.

Online lesson planning and storage. The internet is full of inspiration and

ideas from other teachers. Instead of creating a new lesson plan from
scratch every day, teachers can repurpose and reuse great ideas from other
educators.

Storing and sharing lessons in the cloud lets teachers access lessons
anytime, from anywhere. Digital lesson planning also allows teachers to
quickly access and apply their own lessons from past years — no filing
cabinets required.

Fast feedback and workflows. Teachers can use Google Drive and other
cloud applications for faster editing and grading. When students submit
their work online, teachers can easily access it without having to juggle
papers. This creates a more meaningful revision workflow between teachers
and students because teachers can see exactly what students changed. The
cloud enables students to collaborate with each other on assignments and
projects too.

Meeting state standards. More lesson planning tools are equipped with

Common Core standards, making it easier to check all the boxes for
standardized tests. Teachers can also find lesson plan ideas and templates
that meet specific standards for grades and states on the internet and in
lesson planning apps.

School safety. An unexpected benefit of classroom technology is school

safety. Teachers and administrators have the power to lock all school doors
and send emergency announcements at the click of a button.

Teachers can also use automated email and text alerts to communicate with
a large number of parents in an instant. And information about weather
delays and school closings can be sent out quickly and efficiently with
technology.
Preparing children for the future

There’s no denying that we’re moving toward a technology-driven society.

Knowing how to use technology — everything from digital menus to self-
driving cars — prepares students for the future. Technology skills learned
early can support the growth of students both in their careers and personal
lives.

Career preparedness. Internet skills are essential for success in higher

education. College students will have to use a variety of apps beyond word
processing. They’ll also use tablets and share digital information. Students
can explore potential careers online and through career workshops. Finding
inspirational professionals on social media can help students network and
connect with mentors.

Digital citizenship. Learning to present yourself on the internet is an

increasingly important skill. When students grasp digital citizenship at an
early age, they’re more likely to present themselves accurately and safely.
This increases students’ professional opportunities because it ensures they
won’t be dismissed outright as a result of inappropriate online content.

Another part of digital citizenship is learning how to stay safe by using tools
like password managers and multifactor authentication, plus learning to
identify scams.

Life skills. Searching for jobs, writing cover letters, and sending emails are
all crucial skills for twenty-first century success. Students who know how to
express themselves well online are much better equipped for a competitive
job market. Learning to create a basic website or implement a social media
strategy also makes students more desirable candidates in a competitive job
market.

Supporting collaboration and connection

Technology enables students to connect with people in the classroom and

around the globe. Learning how to use digital tools to collaborate on
projects prepares students for nearly any career.
Connecting to students in other parts of the world fosters cultural learning
and teaches students how to work with people who are different from them.
While the internet can sometimes be an ugly place full of hate, it offers an
immense sense of community and support when used wisely.

Classroom websites. Students of any age can benefit from classroom

websites. They often foster connections between students and create a place
for them to collaborate on group projects.

They also benefit students by creating a shared sense of belonging and

community. Websites, which are usually filled with student work, classroom
updates, and assignments, mimic what it’s like to be part of an online forum
or group. Students can gain experience designing and editing the site as
well as uploading files to the site.

Global citizens. Technology connects students to other classrooms in

different countries across the globe. Learning how other students live
promotes cultural understanding and reduces fear of those who are
different. It also helps students develop interests in travel, other cultures,
and different career paths.

Historical context. The internet connects students to archives from around

the world. Students can learn about their world through images, videos, and
text archives. The internet can also illuminate the past: Accessing historical
archives makes history lessons more relevant and tangible.

How do you actually use technology in

the classroom?
Whether it’s gamification, online quizzes, or group collaboration, there are a
near-infinite number of ways to use technology in the classroom.

The most effective educational technology applications use digital tools to

meet specific learning objectives. Here are some of the most common ways
teachers can enhance everyday lessons through strategies and lesson plans
involving technology.

Passive vs active learning

Technology can be used for two different types of learning: active and
passive. Both are important, so let’s explore how technology plays a role in
each.

Active learning. Active learning engages the student through activities and

discussions that reinforce concepts, says Classcraft. The benefit of active
learning is that it helps students draw connections to real life. In turn, this
gives them a better understanding of their place in the world and facilitates
important skills such as analysis, evaluation, and collaboration.

Active learning may also improve student attention while fostering

meaningful discussions and divergent learning, in which there is more than
one correct answer to a question. Many educators think of active learning as
activities and lessons that don’t involve digital tools. However, online games
and tools that foster real-time collaboration can facilitate active learning.

Passive learning. With passive learning, students are responsible for

absorbing and retaining information at their own pace. Passive learning
fosters skills such as reading, analyzing, listening, and writing.

This method primarily relies on convergent learning, meaning there’s a

single answer to the question at hand. Traditional tests and quizzes evaluate
students’ understanding of concepts learned through passive methods.

Passive learning lessons give teachers a stronger grasp of how class time is
spent and what’s learned each day. They also offer a standardized
presentation of learning material, which some students may benefit from.
Reading something on a tablet, viewing an educational video, or watching
an online lesson are all ways that technology can facilitate passive learning.
Gamification

One of the greatest benefits of technology in the classroom is that it can be

used to foster fun, engaging learning through games. Games use the
processes that students already know from video and computer games to
create fun lessons that promote active learning. Almost any lesson can be
turned into a game.

Points and badges. There are myriad classroom apps that allow students to
earn points or badges instead of grades. In fact, points can be accumulated
throughout a unit to determine a grade once the project or lesson is
finished. Badges can symbolize different levels of mastery and can include
small rewards or titles, like “reading rockstar” or “algebra expert,” to help
students feel proud of their accomplishments.

Progress visualization. Instructional video games or gamified lesson plans

can also help students visualize their progress. As they earn points with
every success, students can begin to clearly see the roadmap toward a long-
term learning goal. This may make them more excited about working hard
and staying focused. Seeing other students’ roadmaps promotes healthy
competition and creates a culture of collaboration, community, and respect.

Instant feedback

Online tools facilitate a meaningful exchange between students and

teachers. When students can easily see teacher feedback, they internalize
changes privately and safely. Teachers can use feedback from students to
shape a learning program that’s optimized for the specific needs of their
class. This is possible through the use of the following:

The cloud. Cloud-based tools allow educators to view student work, and

make comments and suggestions for improvement, from anywhere.
Students can see these edits instantly and make quick changes to their work.
This is helpful both for individual and group work.

Online polls and quizzes. The use of online polls and quizzes ensures that
students gain instant feedback on their work. Teachers can also poll students
on specific aspects of a lesson to gauge how well they understood it. Digital
quizzes provide teachers with analytics so they can identify areas where
multiple students are struggling.

Distance learning. Even if you teach in a traditional classroom environment,

you may still benefit from the ability to record and share lessons with
students. If you have a snow day, for example, a recorded lesson can keep
students from falling behind in the curriculum. A student who has to miss
school due to a medical or family emergency can also stay up to date
through such recordings.

Flipped learning. Digital tools give teachers the opportunity to test a

flipped classroom model, which can optimize class time to answer questions
and facilitate discussion. As certified educator Elizabeth Trach points out, a
flipped classroom allows students to explore new concepts in their own way,
at their own pace, which provides more differentiation in learning.

Integrating technology in the classroom

Choosing the right technology for your classroom can be overwhelming. But
as we mentioned before, getting clear on your learning objectives can help
you determine which tools will be best.

Device-to-student ratios. Not all schools have the luxury of a one-to-one

device ratio in the classroom. If you can’t offer a device to each student, how
can you use them strategically so that each student has an equal chance to
learn from them?

One idea is to use devices to offset high teacher-to-student ratios,

says Emily Levitt, vice president of education at Sylvan Learning. In
environments where there are many more students than teachers, digital
tools help provide personalized instruction for every student. Personalized
digital applications can ensure that, while teachers are meeting privately
with other students, the rest of the class is using devices to work on their
specific areas of improvement.
If you do have a one-to-one device ratio in your school, it’s still important to
consider how devices will support learning. Having access to technology
doesn’t mean devices should be used in every single lesson. In fact, being
strategic about device use makes technology more effective.

Setting healthy boundaries. Whether you have one device in your

classroom or 100, you’ll need to set healthy boundaries around use.
Technology should only be used when it can enhance learning and make
lessons more engaging and effective.

You may choose to use technology only in the morning, for example. Or you
may have one day a week where technology isn’t a basis for any lesson plan.
Regardless of technology’s prevalence in our daily lives, educators should
strive to strike a balance between manual and digital activities.

Technology for different age groups

Technology is used differently in the classroom depending on what grade

you’re teaching. For example, elementary school teachers tend to use
technology to keep students engaged in and excited about what they’re
learning. In contrast, middle-school or high-school students may use
technology as a means of connecting to the outside world and learning
career skills.

Technology in the elementary classroom. Tablets are a great way to

provide each elementary student with equal access to learning material. If a
student is falling behind, the teacher can quickly see who is struggling and
what the problem is.

Elementary teachers also use technology to give young students more

ownership over their learning. Gamification, for example, often allows
students to make an avatar for themselves and control how they collaborate
and participate.

Many teachers also use technology to involve parents and families in the
learning process. Teachers can provide parents with access to project
reports, grades, and classroom calendars to demonstrate what students are
learning — and what they may need to work on at home.

Technology in the middle-school and high-school classroom. As with

elementary students, middle and high schoolers benefit from the engaging
nature of technology. However, more advanced learners may also profit
from using tech tools to digitally collaborate with other students.

Digital study guides and test prep quizzes can help students prepare for
standardized tests. Online databases allow students to explore history and
find primary sources for research projects. This can facilitate discussion
about how to find reputable sources online, which also ties into important
conversations about how to keep data safe and private.

Moreover, middle- and high-school students benefit from the real-world

exchanges offered by the internet. Whether communicating with a
classroom abroad or watching video clips from another country, devices
connect today’s students to new people and places to foster cultural
exchange and understanding.

Grants for technology in the classroom

Budget constraints are one of the main obstacles preventing teachers from
implementing technology in their classrooms. Whether it’s switching to a
smartboard or buying some Chromebooks, even small device adoptions can
feel unattainable without proper funding.

This is problematic because learning how to use technology is essential for

student success. Being unable to access the right hardware and software can
limit a student’s personal, academic, and professional growth.

Fortunately, there are many grants available. Local, state, federal, and
nonprofit grants can all help teachers acquire educational devices and
pursue technology-driven projects. Here’s what you need to know about
finding and applying for grants that can improve access to technology and
promote learning equity for students of all backgrounds.
What do you need an educational technology grant for?

Educational technology grants can fund the purchase of specific hardware

and software needed to fulfill a learning objective. Grants are often given to
schools or teachers pursuing a certain initiative, such as improving device
equity in a low-income school or teaching STEM skills.

Grants can be applied to small-scale projects that further a certain unit or

lesson in a classroom. They can also be on a larger scale, advancing
technology access across an entire school or district. If you feel that
technology would give your students more opportunities to learn, chances
are you could benefit from a grant. The next step is understanding where
such funding could be applied and how it could make a difference for your
class.

Evaluate technology access at your school. Before you make any major

requests or send any applications, it’s important to assess the technology
currently available at your school. Consider resources like computer labs,
personal student devices, and internet access.

What educational technology is already furthering learning at your school?

Where are there opportunities to expand access? Give grant donors a clear
picture of what the students at your school are working with. This will make
it easier for you to articulate how their funds can complement existing
resources.

Clarify your project. It’s important to have a clear focus when applying for
a grant. This makes the impact of technology access more measurable over
time. When you know what goal the technology is meant to help achieve,
you can better quantify the impacts of those devices.

Getting clear on your goal early can also make the application process
easier. Most grant applications will ask for details about how you’ll use the
technology. The more specific you can be, the more likely a grant will be
awarded.
Many donors, especially those in the private sector, will also want to see how
their funding made an impact. Keep tabs on student growth before, during,
and after the grant money was applied. When you can clearly articulate how
the grant advanced student learning, you boost the chances of your
classroom or school receiving a grant again in the future.

Applying for classroom technology grants

When writing a grant proposal, it’s best to keep your options open to
numerous funding sources. Your list of potential resources should span both
public and private donors. Each of the entities you apply to will have
different requirements, notes Gregory Firn, Ed.D. , a former school
administrator and current executive at RoboKind.

“The way grants are structured, the amounts available, the specific deadlines,
the time it takes to be notified of an award after application, and the
number of people on grant application review committees vary widely,
which is why it’s important to explore many different sources and to apply to
multiple agencies.”

Grants tend to have specific requirements about who is granted funds and
why. Not every available grant is going to work for your classroom, your
students, and/or your school. Diversifying your grant applications can
increase the chances that you’ll find the right funding fit for your project.

Keep it simple. It’s easy to get caught up in jargon when talking about

technology. Don’t fall into the trap that so many teachers do when writing
grants.

You’re talking to people who care about advancing education equity. Use
data and details to illustrate how your students can benefit from technology,
but don’t be afraid to use emotion and storytelling to explain why your
students deserve the grant. Strike this balance, and your grant application
will be both well-rounded and relatable.

State measurable, actionable goals. Clarifying your project’s goals and

intentions early on will make your grant application more powerful. Break
down your goals into measurable learning outcomes within the proposal,
but remember to keep it simple.

What technology do you need to meet your goals? How long will it take to
execute these projects? What will success look like for your classroom? The
reviewers will likely be looking at hundreds of applications, and keeping
things direct will help your application stand out.

Ask for help. Your district likely offers many resources for helping write
your grant application. There may be other teachers in your school who have
successfully applied for a grant in the past. Similarly, administrators at your
school may have insight into funding sources or proposal writing tips. You
may also have a district grants coordinator, whose sole job it is to help
teachers like you secure essential grant funding.

Finding state and federal grant resources

You may investigate government-sponsored programs, such as The Every

Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which helps each state create its own plan for
improving access to technology, among other initiatives. Depending on your
state, there may be ESSA funds available for expanding technology access in
your classroom.

New ESSA changes have expanded the availability of technology funds,

which can be used for “purchasing devices, equipment, and software
applications in order to address readiness shortfalls.” ESSA also grants funds
to provide educators with professional learning tools, implement school-
wide technology instruction, execute blended learning projects, and expand
technology access to students in rural environments.

You can find state funding sources by looking at your state’s education
website too. For example, The New York State Department of
Education offers a list of funding resources for schools and districts across
the state. The Office of Educational Technology  also has information and
resources to support the advancement of technology in the classroom.
The U.S. Department of Energy  provides grants to classrooms pursuing
STEM initiatives as well.
Foundations, associations, and unions. In addition to looking at state and
federal grants, it’s a good idea to explore national and private foundations,
associations, and unions. For example, the Corning Foundation provides
technology grants to teachers with a specific plan for learning advancement
in STEAM. The Captain Planet Foundation provides technology grants to
projects with a sustainability focus.

 Technology companies. Many international technology companies have

educational foundations specifically designed to help low-income schools
obtain devices. The Toshiba America Foundation provides K–12 teachers
with grants to put toward classroom materials. The Verizon Foundation
provides schools with technologies that support educational STEM projects.
Another corporate source is the Oracle Foundation, which seeks to close the
technology gender gap by providing technology access to young girls.

Assistive technology in the classroom

The number of American students enrolled in special education programs
has risen 30 percent in the past 10 years, according to the National
Education Association . And nearly every classroom across the country has
students with special needs.

This rise is in part due to increasing awareness and understanding of the

many types of learning challenges that exist. Instead of focusing just on
students with visual or auditory impairments, for example, schools and
teachers now better recognize the signs of dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and
intellectual disabilities.
Modern research and technology have made us more adept at
understanding learning challenges and supporting students living with
disabilities. That has led to more personalized education programs to suit
the varying needs of these students.

Assistive technology already plays a pivotal role in expanding learning

opportunities. Text-to-speech tools, for example, can help students with
visual impairments and dyslexia, as well as those with ADHD. Understanding
the many opportunities for using assistive technology allows educators to
create equitable learning environments for all students.
Personalizing learning with assistive technology

Assistive technology in the classroom takes into account the fact that
students learn in different ways. It allows all students in a classroom to work
at their own pace using tools that support their specific needs. This is
especially beneficial in schools with larger class sizes, where it can be harder
to cater to each student in a personalized and meaningful way.

Assistive technology also empowers teachers with a deeper understanding

of each student’s needs. This is because many assistive technology tools
offer data on how each student is performing. Such data arms teachers with
greater insight into which students need special attention in specific areas. It
also tells teachers which topics might be challenging for all students — and
where a classroom-wide review could support everyone.

Some teachers may think that adding technology will complicate lesson
planning and increase their workloads. However, integrating technology into
the classroom doesn’t have to involve any extra planning. Special education
teacher Morgan Tigert explains that she doesn’t offer an alternative
curriculum for special-needs students in her class. Instead, she creates one
curriculum and provides students many different options for learning the
same information.

Using this model, teachers can create one lesson plan designed to be taught
across a variety of assistive technologies and mediums. Tigert’s approach
allows students to work at their own pace and demonstrate aptitude in their
own way. Special-needs students in this classroom model may feel more
included when using assistive technology, as everyone is using individual
tools. This may reduce the stigma on students who use assistive technology
in a classroom where others don’t. It can also provide all students with more
agency over the learning process, which can boost motivation, reliability,
and self-advocacy.

Since students in the classroom are all learning the same material, albeit in
different ways, they can collaborate during meaningful discussions. This
ensures that special-needs students of all levels have the opportunity to
learn real-world communication and teamwork skills.
In this way, assistive technology can promote learning equity, unlike
traditional special-needs teaching. Different students in those more
traditional special-needs classrooms are presented with varying levels of
material, which can actually widen the achievement gap.

Assistive technology for special needs

From simple timers to complex voice recognition tools, there are a variety of
assistive technologies available to the modern classroom. Different tools,
apps, and devices can support nearly all learning challenges and abilities.
Here’s an overview of the most common assistive technology in the
classroom.

Assistive technology tools don’t have to be advanced or complicated to

make a difference in student learning. For example, audio players and
recorders can record what’s taught in class so that students can replay the
files at home when they do homework. Timers are a visual aid that can help
students who struggle with time management and self-pacing.

Large-display and talking calculators can help students who have visual or
auditory impairments with their math assignments. Students with dyscalculia
may also benefit from talking calculators, which help them perform
equations and read numbers correctly.

Digital assignments can also be helpful for students with challenges like
dyslexia. Electronic worksheets can guide students through the proper
alignment of words, equations, and numbers. Similarly, audiobooks can help
students follow along with written textbooks both in class and after school.
An audio version of the day’s lesson allows students to replay the lecture so
that they don’t lose or forget information.

Advanced assistive technology tools

More advanced technologies can also support students with visual, auditory,
and motor skill challenges. The benefit of advanced technology tools is that
many of them can be incorporated with laptops and tablets, meaning all
students can learn from the same devices, yet in different ways.
Text-to-speech (TTS) tools support students with blindness, dyslexia, ADHD,
autism, and other issues that cause visual or concentration impairment.
These can be integrated with a Braille translator. Text-to-speech tools scan
textbooks, assignments, and other materials, then read the text aloud to the
student.

This shows students not only what material is presented, but also how to
properly pace their words and how to pronounce them correctly. This can be
especially helpful in subjects where new vocabulary and concepts are
presented.

Screen readers are another TTS tool that teachers can incorporate into
lessons that use e-readers, tablets, and laptops. A screen reader can be
hooked up to headphones for a student in a large class so that it doesn’t
disrupt or distract other students.

Speech-to-text assistive tools. In contrast with text-to-speech tools,

speech-to-text tools can help students transform spoken words into written
text. Also called dictation technology, these tools are ideal for students who
struggle with writing challenges such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, poor
penmanship, or poor spelling.

Students with attention issues like ADHD and ADD may also benefit from
speech-to-text tools, as they can help them record their thoughts more
efficiently. Students can use these tools to write, edit, and revise their work
using just their voice. These tools can also be used to record the teacher so
that lessons can be transcribed into notes for the student to review later.

Alternative keyboards. Alternative keyboards assist students with a variety

of learning challenges. For example, some keyboards have extra-large
buttons and colors, making it easier for those with visual impairments to see
each key.

Students with dyslexia might also benefit from a keyboard that reads from A
to Z, rather than the standard QWERTY keyboard. These keyboards can be
connected to the laptops or tablets that other students are using so that
everyone can view and complete the same work at once.
Onscreen keyboards can also help students with limited physical ability
because they can be used with alternative microphones and switches, as well
as eye gazes.

FM listening systems. Frequency modulation (FM) systems help students

with impaired hearing better understand the teacher. FM tools require that
the teacher wear a microphone, which directs information either through
classroom-wide speakers or directly into students’ earphones. They reduce
background noise so students with auditory impairments, attention deficits,
language processing issues, and autism can better hear what the teacher is
saying.

Virtual and augmented reality. Virtual reality is an emerging education

tool that holds a lot of promise for special-needs students. For example,
mixed reality headsets can support students who struggle with reading by
walking them through a text step-by-step, adding highlights and notes
along the way.

Teachers can also join students in virtual reality scenarios to walk students
through specific instructions or lessons. Mixed reality headsets can provide
students with a more personalized learning experience, even in a large class
where other students are progressing at a different pace.

Apps and software for assistive technology. Many apps and software

tools bring the functionality of assistive technology straight to your
student’s device. The following are few common assistive technology apps:

 Voice4U is an interactive communication app that helps English

language learners and students with autism express their feelings. 
 Dragon is a speech-to-text app that brings dictation to any device,
without an additional tool. 
 Notability helps students with motor skill and processing challenges
take more effective notes.
 ClaroRead is a robust text-to-speech tool that helps students with
visual and attention impairments in reading, writing, studying, and
test-taking.
  Co:Writer helps students write not only through speech recognition
and translation, but also through intuitive word prediction.

How differentiated instruction

Differentiated instruction can be an intimidating concept for many teachers.
When there are already so many units to plan and papers to grade, creating
a personalized plan for each student sounds like a big job.

Contrary to popular belief, differentiated instruction doesn’t require that you

create a unique plan for each student. Rather, a differentiated instruction
strategy helps you understand each student’s unique learning style. It helps
teachers cater to these strengths to make teaching and learning easier and
more efficient.

For example, differentiated instruction might mean organizing your class

into groups based on students’ interests or skills. It could also mean giving
each student access to a device, then using their recent history to tailor their
course of study.

Technology offers an infinite number of possibilities when it comes to

learning personalization. With the right strategies, technology can
differentiate instruction and improve learning outcomes — all while making
life easier for the teacher.

What is differentiated instruction?

Students enter the school system with a wide range of learning styles, skills,
and knowledge levels. Usually, as students advance through each grade,
these differences deepen due to minimal differentiation in instruction.

Imagine two students who are equally capable of mastering a lesson, but
only one of them receives instruction in their preferred learning style
throughout the year. The other student will likely fall behind because they
don’t have an opportunity to learn according to their skill set. This widening
achievement gap is perhaps the biggest reason why differentiated
instruction is a growing trend.

Casting a wide net when teaching to different learning styles helps meet
each student’s needs more effectively. For teachers, this means greater
flexibility around how students learn and how they demonstrate knowledge.
It also ensures that students aren’t left behind just because they have a
different learning style.

Understanding the fundamentals of differentiated learning can ensure you

personalize lesson plans effectively, without feeling overwhelmed. 

Leveraging personalized learning strategies

There are many ways to differentiate learning in the classroom. When you’re
first getting started with differentiated instruction, it can be helpful to learn
the basic strategies that other teachers follow for success. These include
creating student groups, curating content, and leveraging student
performance data.

Create dynamic student groups. To improve lesson planning for

differentiated instruction, plan to separate students into different groups.
You may start the year with two groups, then differentiate further as you get
to know students’ strengths. Each group can have one or two captains,
students who have demonstrated mastery of the material. These captains
can support the other students who need further help with a lesson.

Another idea is to break students up into pairs. Students should only be

paired if they demonstrate a similar skill level. Students can also be grouped
or paired by interest, preparedness, or choice.

Regardless of how you create groups, be sure to rotate them often. This
ensures students have continual opportunities to learn and grow alongside
students with different learning styles. You can also switch back and forth
between larger groups and pairs to ensure no two students get too
accustomed to working together.
Curate content, tools, and resources. When getting started with
differentiated instruction in the classroom, you’ll want to give students a
variety of learning options. Gathering a list of content, tools, and resources
ensures you always have a reliable library of content available.

The internet connects teachers to an endless number of online tools and

resources. Since it can be daunting to sort through all the content available
online, consider a website that aggregates educational content.

For example, Epic! is an educational digital library for children under 12.

Teachers can use Epic! to search for books, learning videos, and quizzes
based on age range and content type.

Another tool for finding and curating content resources is Edcite. Their
online library contains assignments crafted by other English language arts
teachers. This free teaching tool also makes it easy to change or pivot lesson
plans based on where students are at the moment.

Tap into student data. One of the greatest benefits of differentiated

instruction is that it gives teachers insight into student comprehension. It
shows not only where students may be struggling, but also what tools and
techniques will help them best.

To better help students succeed, teachers need to expand the possibilities of

how a single lesson can be learned. Then, they can leverage tools that
provide data on student progress and learning outcomes.

There are a number of tools that can evaluate learning aptitudes across
different projects. Edji, for example, is a reading tool that tracks student
progress within a given text and provides them with prompts based on their
skill level. Since all student interactions with the app are monitored, teachers
can glean insights, such as how long students read, when they were
engaged in a text, and what passage was most engaging.

Allow students to choose their own methods of assessment. The next

step in differentiated education is giving students more say in how they
demonstrate aptitude. This is beneficial because it ensures students are
learning and presenting knowledge to the best of their ability with the tools
and resources available. It recognizes the unique needs of each student and
prevents them from falling behind or getting bored. Plus, students are much
more motivated and engaged in assessment projects when they have a voice
in their own learning.

Instead of assigning everyone a unit test, for example, you can give students
options. Technology can help facilitate each one of these assessments.

Students who feel more comfortable using a keyboard to type out their
thoughts can stick with an essay. Other students may prefer to give a
presentation and use video to record it. Whether students make a video,
create an art project, or record an audio presentation, technology allows
teachers to assess student comprehension.

Another idea is to provide students with surveys to see which methods of

learning and knowledge demonstration they enjoy most. Try asking

 What projects they’ve enjoyed in the past

 What projects they might want to try
 What you can do as a teacher to provide these opportunities 

Surveys are great because they let you solicit student opinions anonymously,
which helps many students open up and share opinions they otherwise
might not.

Modern, adaptable learning environments

Flexibility is another core benefit of differentiated instruction.

Teachers in traditional classroom environments create one lesson plan with

the same assignments and projects for each student. This doesn’t allow
much room for flexibility. If one student is struggling and asking questions,
the rest of the class is brought down to that level. Likewise, if a student is
excelling and moving forward, they may finish early and get bored because
there isn’t enough content to support their needs.
The goal of differentiated technology is to cater to each unique skill level.
Closing this gap early helps students realize what their learning styles are
and where they excel — something that can serve them throughout their
schooling.

Flipped classroom models

Flipped classroom models encourage both differentiated learning and

flexibility. A flipped classroom is when teachers film themselves lecturing (or
providing another instructional method), and students learn at home.
Classroom time is spent discussing what students learned from the video
lesson, answering questions, and engaging in collaborative group work.

Two of the most common teacher tools for flipped classroom models are

 Hippo Video. Teachers can use Hippo Video to record lessons,

explainer videos, screencasts, or interviews. Students can then engage
with this content at their own pace. Teachers can also use this tool to
give feedback on student work. The addition of facial cues and voice
intonation can help certain students better understand their feedback.
 Edpuzzle. With Edpuzzle, teachers can create their own video or
upload one from a library of educational content that includes
resources like YouTube and Khan Academy. They can then incorporate
the videos into at-home assignments. Teachers can see viewing data
for each student and add assessment questions to gauge
understanding.

A flipped classroom transforms how classroom time is used by creating

more flexibility around what students do in class. It provides opportunity for
differentiated instruction, as some students can advance to supplemental
texts and materials while others can review lessons.

Throughout this personalized learning process, the teacher is there to

support and oversee students as they progress. This also redefines
homework entirely. Instead of asking students to demonstrate aptitude at
home on their own, flipped classroom models provide a safe and supportive
atmosphere at school for questions, collaboration, and advancement.
The pros and cons of technology in the classroom
From making learning more accessible to advancing personalized
instruction, it’s clear that  technology has many benefits for the classroom.
But these pros don’t come without their cons, and technology can be just as
challenging as it is beneficial.

For example, teachers, parents, and community members who oppose

technology in the classroom may feel that it’s too distracting. And students
may use tools in unethical ways to cheat or bully other students.

Many parents are also concerned that technology use may contribute to
additional screen time in a world where students are already bombarded by
cell phones, televisions, and tablets.

While tech does have the ability to boost equality among students, it can
also widen equality gaps between students of different socioeconomic
levels. Another common complaint against technology in the classroom is
that it can lead to hyperactivity and attention disorders, which is one of the
leading learning challenges students face today.

These arguments against technology in the classroom are both important

and valid. However, it’s also true that most innovations in the world come
with both benefits and drawbacks. Diving into technology without
information isn’t a good idea, just as avoiding technology can cause your
students to fall behind. Understanding the many pros and cons of
technology in the classroom can help ensure that you know how to deploy
these tools correctly.

To help you make more informed choices when using technology in the
classroom, here’s a breakdown of how digital tools benefit students and how
they can be a detriment.
Personalized education vs unequal learning

As discussed earlier, technology can support individualized instruction for

students at varying skill levels. This is especially true for classrooms with
students of different abilities.

Students who are already further along can use technology to access higher-
level instruction, while students who need extra support can get it when and
how they need it. Best of all, teachers can use technology to see where
students are in the learning process and how they’re progressing. This offers
more insight into each student’s learning journey, which allows for
individualized instruction that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

If students in a classroom work at many different levels, this can pose

challenges. This could make it hard for students to collaborate on group
work. If one student is much further ahead than another student in the unit,
their group collaboration time may be spent educating and answering
questions rather than collaborating.

Since communication and collaboration are essential skills for students to

develop, this could put the development of these traits at risk. It may also
make it hard for teachers to provide equal support to each student, as more
resources may be spent on the students who need additional help.

Future preparation vs widening the achievement gap

It’s true that technology prepares students for the future in an increasingly
digital world. Students who learn how to type, research, and use social
media will be much more equipped to succeed both personally and
professionally than those who don’t learn these skills.

And students who are comfortable using technology are more likely to excel
in high school, which can help them be more prepared for a university
setting. Teachers who make technology an everyday aspect of the classroom
ensure that their students are ready and equipped to succeed in the world.
While access to technology helps certain students advance, lack of access
can make students fall behind. Students in low-income schools may not
have the same opportunities as students in high-income schools.

More privileged students may have a one-to-one device ratio in the

classroom, while less privileged students may have just one computer to
share. Expense is the greatest barrier to accessibility in technology, and
some people feel that this cost is widening the achievement gap in more
ways than one.

Expanding worldview vs a tool for cheating

Teachers often appreciate the many ways technology can expand students’
worldviews. From Google Maps to virtual museum exhibits to primary source
films, technology connects students to other places and times in ways that
wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

Students can access any information they want — which may not always be
a good thing. Many parents worry that increased technology use in schools
will enable students to cheat. If students use technology to cheat now (and
get away with it), it could cause them to create unethical habits for the
future. This can become a serious problem in college, where getting caught
cheating can be grounds for expulsion.

Teachers and students worried about cheating should consider creating a

standard of ethics for technology use. This can help educate students about
what’s allowed and what isn’t. Creating clear ramifications for plagiarism and
cheating can also prevent students from using technology to cheat on tests
and assignments. These ethical codes can also outline rules for online
communication and interactions, which can prevent cyberbullying and other
harmful online behavior.

Beneficial tool vs unnecessary distraction

One of the leading arguments against technology in the classroom is that

it’s distracting and deters from learning. If students have become intelligent
citizens without technology in schools for decades, why do we need the
tools now?

The truth is, today’s students are accustomed to using screens in every
aspect of their lives, so using technology in the classroom is often easy for
both teachers and students. Since most children already know how to use
tablets and computers, there isn’t a steep learning curve.

It makes sense for students to learn these tools in the classroom, as they’ll
likely use them in the future. Students need to be exposed to technology
early on in order to succeed at work and life.

Beyond being familiar with technology, students need to learn how to

perform important functions like writing, researching, communicating, and
creating an online identity. These skills can’t be developed by simply using a
laptop once in awhile. They need to be incorporated into specific lesson
plans designed to help students become technology literate.

On the other hand, the technology used in schools can be distracting. The
downside of technology literate students is that they know how to use
digital tools for fun and games. When your classroom is full of students on
devices, it can be challenging to keep tabs on everyone. This can exacerbate
distractions and, in turn, widen achievement gaps among students.

Setting healthy boundaries

Today’s children already have more attention deficit disorders than in the
past. This could be linked to overstimulation caused by screens. Setting
boundaries for technology can limit screen time to a certain number of
minutes or hours per day. Teachers can also take time to instill these
boundaries, helping students create healthy relationships with technology
for the rest of their lives.

In addition, setting healthy boundaries for technology use in the classroom

can ensure that students aren’t constantly checking social media or falling
down a research rabbit hole. Technology should be used at the teacher’s
discretion. When it can enhance and improve learning, it should be included.
But not all lessons will be more engaging and memorable by simply adding
a computer.

Teachers can also do their part to limit screen time in the classroom. Many
people oppose classroom technology because it can lead to behavioral
disruptions, sleep disorders, and social challenges. It’s too early to determine
the long-term effects of this kind of technology on young children, but
many people would rather take the safe route and impose healthy limits on
these tools.

Whether you’re totally new to technology or you’re hoping to create

healthier boundaries for screens, it’s important to be clear on the most
prominent benefits and drawbacks of using technology in the classroom.

Technology in the classroom: The

current situation
Technology has played an increasingly important role in the classroom since
formal education began in the United States. Whether it was chalkboards
and paper or computers and the internet, each invention has brought new
opportunities for learning. Understanding how technology has evolved
sheds light not only on where we are in today’s classroom, but where
educational technology can take us in the future.

The history and evolution of technology in the classroom

From the schoolhouse to the computer lab, school environments have

changed drastically over the past three centuries. Technology has been
perhaps the biggest driver of educational transformation, changing the way
students interpret information and demonstrate their knowledge.

Here’s a look back at how technology has changed education over the years.

1700s: Students often didn’t have access to paper and textbooks. Instead,

they used what were called hornbooks — wooden paddles with lessons
printed on them. Most lessons revolved around the Bible, and students were
instructed to read passages and memorize verses. Students were also taught
basic math, reading, writing, and poetry. Girls and boys were taught separate
lessons; boys studied more advanced subjects, while girls were taught to
take care of the home.

1800s: By the 1800s, pencils and paper were more popular in classrooms, as
were textbooks and printed works of literature and poetry. The chalkboard
was invented in Scotland during this century. Originally made from natural
black or grey slate, it gave teachers a way of sharing information with a
larger range of students. The slide rule was also invented during this century,
enabling students to perform basic and complex math problems in a more
organized format. The end of the century saw the invention of magic
lanterns, which used lanterns and oil lamps to give presentations.

1920s–1950s: Filmstrip projectors were invented in the 1920s, taking the

place of magic lanterns. These projectors allowed teachers to show multiple
images on a large scale. Filmstrips were usually accompanied by
prerecorded audio. This coincides with the increasing role of radio and
recorded audio in the classroom, which added to the teacher’s toolkit.

“Audio cues let teachers know when to advance to the next image; later
models performed this function automatically,” says educator Laura Gray.
Filmstrip projectors were used until the 1980s, when videocassettes became
more popular and eliminated the need for projectors. Ballpoint pens also
became an important tool during this time, and students began recording
their own homework on paper and in notebooks.

1960s–1980s: Overhead projectors were an important invention in the ’60s.

Projectors allowed teachers to demonstrate workflows in real time. This
supported visual learners, especially with math and science problems. In this
sense, the overhead projector was one of the first technologies that offered
differentiated instruction and made lessons more accessible to students with
different learning styles.

Educational videos also became more popular during the ’70s and ’80s,
helping to present material in a more dynamic and compelling way that
captured students’ attention. Scantrons were another major invention of this
period. They enabled more efficient and accurate test-taking and better
evaluation of results. The computer began to find its way into classrooms,
but it was still emerging as a personal technology and not universally
accessible by teachers, students, and schools due to the high price.

1990s–2000: The 1990s saw two of the biggest technology changes in

history: the rise of personal computers and the invention of the World Wide
Web. During this time, typing became an important skill for all students, and
more lessons incorporated computers and the internet. Word processing
tools also became a major part of assignments, and typed and printed
lessons were growing in popularity.

Computers enabled teachers to access, create, and print their own

worksheets, and students were also empowered to create and print
assignments from home. With more access to information than ever before,
students had more opportunities to research information on the internet.

2000–2010: This was the decade when specific websites were incorporated

into the classroom. Cloud storage allowed students to complete and share
documents online, and YouTube became a destination for educational video
content. Most classrooms in the United States had multiple computers
available, either in the classroom or in a school computer lab.

Tools like Moodle allowed teachers to create and share lessons with
students. The open-source nature of this tool also introduced the idea of
teachers being able to share lesson plans with other teachers from around
the world. This expanded teacher knowledge and promoted the sharing of
lessons across states and countries. Clickers also became popular during this
time, allowing students a more interactive way to answer questions.

2010–present: So far, this has been the most explosive decade of classroom
technology transformation. The tablet is, in itself, a major transformation,
with the development of apps bringing personalized education and
gamification to everyday classroom learning. Digital whiteboards also
created a more interactive experience that allowed students to immerse
more deeply in subjects like math, English, and science. Mobile phones are
also important pieces of classroom technology.

As more students began to acquire their own digital devices, including

smartphones, laptops, and tablets, lessons and learning tools became
accessible at all times, from anywhere. This is also the decade when social
media became a major learning tool. Learning to ethically use social media
and create a digital presence online became a core part of learning to
navigate the digital environment.

Technology in the classroom statistics

Technology has come far from the days of Scantrons and projectors. But
how exactly has technology changed? What relationship do today’s students
have with technology? Classroom technology statistics offer insight into
what technology means for today’s students.

How do teachers use technology in the classroom?

Larry Bernstein at EdTech magazine, citing a survey by Cambridge

International, says many students today rely on a variety of tech tools:

 48 percent of students say they use desktop computers in the

classroom.
 42 percent say they use smartphones.
 33 percent say the use interactive whiteboards.
 20 percent say they use tablets.

What is the state of technology access and disparity in the United States?

A study by MidAmerica Nazarene University  shows that 86 percent of

classrooms have Wi-Fi, and 62 percent of students use their own technology
tools in the classroom. In fact, nearly three-quarters of teachers say they use
a laptop or a tablet every day in the classroom.

The main reason teachers don’t have more technology in the classroom is a
lack of funding.
How do teachers feel about technology?

The MidAmerica Nazarene University survey found that 66 percent of

teachers think technology makes students more productive. That said, most
teachers say access to cell phones can cause distractions. In fact, 93 percent
of classrooms have some kind of policy about limiting the use of
smartphones and the internet.

What does the future hold for technology in the classroom?

Moving forward, technology will continue to transform the ways students

learn. For example, augmented reality is poised to elevate the learning
experience by helping students see the world in new ways. For instance,
Google Cardboard and AR experiences designed for education will help
students learn in a way that feels more personalized and private.

Apps continue to change how students communicate with teachers as well.

They facilitate a flipped classroom model, for example, which encourages
more one-on-one teacher and student time in the classroom. This kind of
tech also allows students to access lessons remotely.

The power of technology in the classroom

We live in a world that is inextricably connected to technology. The way we

find information, share our lives, and connect with others is becoming
increasingly digital. Likewise, more classrooms rely on technology to deliver
personalized experiences that engage students and elevate learning. Tech
tools give teachers the ability to differentiate instruction, which caters to
different learning types and supports students with special needs and
learning challenges.

Technology also holds the power to transform not only what we learn but
how. Teachers can bring immersive, global experiences to their students.
Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or an administrator, it’s crucial to
understand how technology is used in the classroom today.

This article is originally published on Nov 19, 2019, and updated on Jan 14, 2020