research methods, interactive tech is helping special education students have
effective learning experiences in the classroom unlike ever before. Intelligent
toys, or robotic toys, are allowing for extremely positive interactions with
withdrawn autism spectrum disorder (ASD) kids, again allowing for a more
inclusive classroom environment, where each student can learn to the best
of his/her ability.
“Technology has the potential to bring remarkable new possibilities to
teaching and learning by providing teachers with opportunities to share
best practices, and offer parents platforms for engaging more deeply and
immediately in their children’s learning,” U.S. Education Secretary Arne
Duncan says. n
Professional Development for Educators
The ever-changing landscape of education is hard to
stay privy to as an educator. Putting hundreds of hours
into lesson plans each school year makes the thought of
adopting changes a daunting one. Personalized professional
development is changing the way teachers are learning to
teach their students. Administration-required seminars
are being replaced with real-time alternative credentialing.
Teachers are learning new ways for classroom learning,
combining online learning, service-based learning, and
hands-on learning to provide students with a valuable
educational experience.
As technology continues to change and education tirelessly
tries to keep up, students and teachers can look forward
to the exciting opportunities in learning. School districts
will continue to work to make thoughtful technology
purchases that develop a vision for the future of education.
Once technology is purchased, schools must remember a
crucial step in rollout: educating faculty and staff on how to
successfully utilize the technology in the classroom. The right
technology, with the right professional development, can lead
to a valuable education. From online learning, to utilizing
wearables for interactive teaching purposes, education trends
are going to continue to morph to ensure that students
graduate knowing they are ready to take on the world. n
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