Time for a Tech Check

As we continue to focus our work around student achievement, it’s important that our technology use supports our cause.  I’ve used this space to reference the SAMR model in the past and you will see a similar message in my “Tech Check”list below.

Before students use technology in the classroom, check this list:

TECH CHECKlist (All checked = great use)

• The technology is targeting a specific skill, within the curriculum, that will help the student achieve.  The targeted skill should be individualized to the student, not just one-size-fits-all activities.
• The technology is allowing the student access to content or collaboration that wouldn’t be possible without it.
• The technology is creating or housing student content that demonstrates their mastery of current curriculum.

That is it, it’s a pretty short list.  Technology use should be meaningful and purposeful.  Passive or consumption use (videos, game rewards, listening to music) really should be minimized.  Our students are consuming more and more technology every day.  According to CNN, students are spending between 6-9 hours a day on screens.  As a school district, I think it is important for us to tie student screen time to student achievement goals.  If the screen time doesn’t impact student achievement, don’t use it.  The American Academy for Pediatrics has provided tips for parents that I think easily transfer into the classroom.  Start with the tech checklist above, but also incorporate some of the AAP tips by modelling appropriate use, valuing face to face communication, setting limits and having a tech free zone in your classroom. Narrowing our technology use to purposeful use, not only will model appropriate behavior, but ultimately will impact student achievement.