Technology transforms the world in which we live.
It can make the impossible possible, and is the key to doing more with less.
Yet many school leaders are apprehensive about bringing technology into their school.
Those who fear technology don’t realize that it’s not the technology that matters — it’s how you USE it and more importantly WHO we become because of that experience.
Students are not motivated by technology. They are transformed when they get to use the technology to connect, create, collaborate and contribute to a world outside of their classroom. Technology can make all of that possible — but only if it helps the learner achieve these things.
The following framework helps reframe and refocus our attention on what matters most; the learner and the learning.
In order to get “TECHNOLOGY right”, we must first get “LEARNING right” and see the technology we use through these lens:
- Opportunity, not Obligation
- Impact, not Integration
- Compelling, not Cool
- Epic, not Engaged
- Significant, not Sufficient
I often have the honor of having this conversation in person with education leaders around the world. I share the following resources as a way to help them through the process of effectively deploying technology in a way that not only engages the learner, but transforms them in the process.
Flip through this deck of my presentation on Getting Tech R.I.G.H.T.
Getting Tech Right from Angela Maiers
Additional Resources:
- This Google Doc for links to the resources referenced in my keynote, and more of my advice to educators, as leaders & learners.
- Genius Matters, my free e-book on #GeniusHour
- The Passion Gap
- 9 Essential Lessons for Changing the World
- Secure Students’ Hearts, or You Don’t Have a Shot at Their Brains
- Reframing, Rebranding and Re-Energizing the STEM Conversation
Lastly, watch this video for a demonstration of how we should properly react to the prospect of introducing new technology, and new ways of doing things, in school.
