Integrating Technology into the Classroom: Tools and Tips for the 2024-2025 School Year
| by Taylor Williams
Each year, technology takes classrooms to new and interesting places — enhancing the school experience for students and alike. As the 2024-2025 academic year begins, integrating technology thoughtfully and effectively can help make learning more engaging and accessible for students of all ages.
From encouraging collaboration to personalizing education, explore the benefits that technology can bring to your classroom this school year and the practical tools you can use to help your students enjoy learning.
The Role of Technology in Modern Classrooms
Technology is no longer seen as a nice-to-have addition in today’s classrooms; it’s a core piece of the learning environment — offering opportunities for interactive learning, access to valuable resources, and tools for a variety of instructional uses.
Using technology in teaching can help create a more inclusive and equitable educational experience by catering to diverse learning styles and needs. For instance, digital tools like interactive whiteboards and student response systems can make lessons more interactive, helping to maintain student engagement and drive information retention.
Key Tools, Technology, and Platforms for Classrooms
There is technology for just about everything you can imagine, but don’t let the options feel overwhelming. Choosing the right tools to use in your classroom can make a significant difference in student engagement and learning outcomes. This list of key tools and platforms can help you streamline your teaching, improve collaboration, and provide interactive learning opportunities:
- Learning management systems (LMS): Platforms like Google Classroom, Schoology, Moodle, Toddle, and Canvas’ Free-For-Teacher account streamline the management of assignments, grading, and communication. They also provide a centralized space for students to access resources and submit work.
- Interactive learning tools: Applications like Kahoot!, Quizlet, Quizzizz, PearDeck, and Nearpod encourage active learning through gamification and quizzes, making it easier for students to engage with the material.
- Collaborative platforms: Tools such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Canva for Education, and Padlet facilitate real-time collaboration, allowing students to work together on projects, share ideas, and receive immediate feedback. These are especially useful for remote learning environments.
- Educational apps: Apps like Duolingo for language learning or Khan Academy for comprehensive subject tutorials offer personalized learning experiences that can cater to individual student needs. These can also serve as complementary resources for students who may want or need additional learning opportunities.
Best Practices for Implementing Technology in a Classroom
Use technology and tools as an opportunity to differentiate instruction and provide students with a choice in how they engage with the learning content. Offer students the flexibility to select between different product outputs or learning processes that align with their strengths, interests, and learning preferences. This approach can help students better understand and internalize the core content and concepts.
When adding new technology to a classroom, it’s essential to start with clear goals. The technology should serve as a tool to enhance learning and align directly with the desired educational outcome. Here are some best practices for effective implementation:
- Start small: Introduce one or two tools at a time and gradually integrate more as you and your students become comfortable. This approach helps avoid overwhelming everyone in the classroom.
- Focus on curriculum: Ensure that the technology supports your teaching objectives. For example, if your goal is to enhance collaboration, choose tools that facilitate group work and communication.
“Pedagogy is the driver, technology is the accelerator” – Michael Fullan
- Provide training and support: Educators should have access to professional development opportunities to learn how to effectively use new technologies. Schools should also provide technical support to address any issues that arise. There are also numerous how-to documents and community discussions available online for free for most digital tools.
- Monitor and evaluate: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the technology in helping your students learn. Gather feedback from students and adjust your approach as necessary.
- Ensure accessibility: Choose tools that are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. This includes considering factors like screen readers for visually impaired students and subtitles for videos.
Challenges and Considerations of Classroom Technology
While the benefits of technology in education are clear, there are also challenges to consider. These include ensuring equitable access to technology, addressing privacy concerns, and avoiding screen fatigue. Teachers should strive to strike a balance, integrating technology in a way that enhances learning without replacing traditional, hands-on experiences. Blended learning, station rotations, and flipped classrooms are strategies that can create a balanced learning environment with both technology and physical experiences.
Conclusion
Integrating technology thoughtfully into your classroom can help make it a more dynamic and engaging learning environment. By choosing and using the right tools — and following best practices — teachers can enhance student engagement, personalize learning, and prepare students for a world that is increasingly connected by technology.
Whether you are already effectively using classroom technology or are new to incorporating it into your teaching strategy, Moreland University is here to support you with back-to-school resources and opportunities to advance your teaching career through the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program and our master’s degree programs. Explore your options and apply today to start leveling up your professional credentials.
