IN Millcreek Fall 2018 | Page 47

Adaptive Learning Technology / Resources Addressing individual learning gaps continues to be at the top of priority lists for student achievement in the classroom. Adaptive learning technologies have already proven successful in the classroom and are a growing piece of the education puzzle. As the infrastructure needed to support these types of initiatives is more easily accessible and widespread, teachers are finding ways to incorporate these technologies into blended learning programs, according to EdTech Update. IoT in the Classroom You may be unfamiliar with the term IoT (Internet of Things), but you likely use it every day. IoT is a network of devices connected to the internet that deliver real-time insights to connected devices, such as cell phones, laptops, or even your television. These “smart” devices offer a unique benefit in the classroom in the form of interactive whiteboards, e-books, 3-D printers, security cameras, and attendance tracking systems. Use of IoT can remove barriers to learning such as location, language, and economic standing. A recent TEDx article highlighted a Fargo, North Dakota, teacher, Kayla Delzer, and her use of technology in the classroom. She believes it can revolutionize education, but only if used correctly. “Using technology simply for the sake of using it is wasteful,” Delzer says. “If tech doesn’t transform your classroom, your teaching or your students’ learning, skip it.” One easy rule of thumb: If a project can be done using paper or pencil but you’re doing it on a computer or device, it’s not transforming your classroom. The possibilities for technology in the K-12 classroom setting are endless and, if implemented correctly, change the course of education as we know it. Change in Educator Practices / School Infrastructure Although technology is getting all the hype for being a game changer in the education industry, the real success comes from teachers and their active role in ensuring the proper employment of that technology in making a difference in learning. According to Education Week, 90 percent of teachers agree that technology gives them the ability to tailor lessons and homework assignments to the individual needs of students. Yet, teachers and schools who rate their system-wide technology integration on a lower scale don’t have as much hope. Buy-in from educators, school leaders and board members, parents, and the community is critical when looking to successfully Continued on next page > Fall Term Begins August 20, 2018 Ages 3 and Up Register Today! Small Class Sizes Individualized Attention Proven Graded Level Syllabus www.PattersonSchoolofBallet.com 2415 W. 26 Street * Erie, PA * (814) 833-3919 MILLCREEK ❘ FALL 2018 45