This week our class wrapped up our educational technology presentations, and I found myself thinking a lot about how each group approached the same topic from such different angles. I wrote a short summary for each one along with the main idea that stayed with me after listening.
From Screens to Scenes
This group focused on virtual field trips and whether they are truly realistic once you factor in timing, cost, and school restrictions. One of the presenters said, “It is cool for every single person,” which really stuck with me because it highlighted the equity piece. What stood out for me most was how many layers of learning can happen when a virtual trip is used with intention. The group also connected their ideas to universal design for learning and real world thinking, which helped me see that a virtual trip is not just a substitute for the real thing. It has its own strengths when I plan purposefully.
Unplugged or Unprepared
This group spent a lot of time unpacking our own personal biases about technology. I related to that because I know I have habits and assumptions that shape my decisions. One of the presenters said, “Tech is a tool not a toy,” and I found myself nodding the whole time. The main idea that stayed with me here is that technology only works when it has a clear purpose. They also reminded us that digital citizenship needs to be taught and reinforced right from the first week of school. The group did bring up research about high screen time leading to stress and overwhelm, which pushed me to think about what balance looks like in daily routines.
Diversity of Tactics in the Classroom
This group compared high tech, low tech, and no tech approaches. The high tech examples included apps, laptops, and virtual reality. I liked their point that these tools help teachers be more efficient and make learning more interactive. They also shared some drawbacks like technical issues and students drifting off task. The low tech tools such as headphones, fidgets, and visual cards felt practical and easy to manage. Most of the presenters said they would choose a low tech classroom if they could. One of the presenters added, “Not every teacher who wants to be low tech can be low tech,” which connected to the reality of student needs, including those with individual education plans. That reminded me that flexibility is not optional. It is part of meeting learners where they are.
https://www.canva.com/design/DAG2uoRCqYk/bSZDvVxIkgUL6SjWVEQqlA/edit
Finding the Balance
This group explored the idea that technology needs a balanced approach. They talked about timing, intentionality, and helping children use their brains first instead of relying on the device. One of the presenters said, “Teachers have a responsibility to protect foundational skills,” which felt like an important reminder. They listed benefits like giving students space to reflect on whether a tool helps or distracts. They also listed challenges such as overstimulation, reduced social interaction, and the risk of tech dependence. Their central question was simple and powerful. “Does this tool improve learning?” That feels like a question I want to keep right at the front of my practice.
Final Thoughts
I left this week feeling like there is no single right way to approach technology, but there is a right mindset. As long as I stay intentional and keep asking how each tool supports learning, I feel confident I can find a balance that works for my future students.