Gary Ackerman @garyackerman@qoto.org

Despite the long history and significant investments in educational technology, many educators still struggle to create effective technology-rich learning environments. This is often due to conflicting advice, lack of clear guidance on best practices, and difficulties in aligning technology implementation with curriculum goals and teacher needs.

Am I the only one who really dislikes the use of "PD" to describe those dreadful meetings is schools?

Technology acceptance models can help school leaders design better technology support systems. Most of this leaders, however, have never heard of it.

Schools are struggling to create effective technology-rich learning environments despite a long history of computers in education.

"If I had a dollar for every time I had to reset a student's password, I could retire early. And buy a new laptop.

Quantitative and qualitative research methods both have a role to play in education. Each approach provides valuable insights into learning and teaching. We seem to act as if quantitative data are the only "real data."

Progressive discourse relies on facts, not opinions or political agendas. Facts are established through rigorous observation and testing. I'm not sure we have been doing this for the last few decades in education.

A flowchart outlining the steps of an experiment provides cognitive scaffolding by guiding student actions throughout the research process, while a rubric clarifies expectations for the final report, supporting both process and output.

Technology can create rich, immersive learning environments that simulate real-world experiences and provide access to diverse perspectives. Think virtual labs, interactive simulations, and global collaboration platforms.

Technology can perform many cognitive tasks previously done by humans, like remembering and processing information at incredible speeds. This frees up human minds to focus on higher-order thinking and uniquely human skills.

The rise of computers and the internet requires a shift in focus from memorization to skills like finding, evaluating, and applying information. Skills like abstraction, systems thinking, experimentation, and collaboration are becoming increasingly important.

Deeper, active, and authentic learning that prepares students to be flexible specialists is crucial.

I updated a blog post with an AI-generated podcast based on it:
https://buff.ly/497pIL7

Cognitive scaffolding utilizes strategies and tools to support learners' thinking processes and manage their cognitive load. Examples include flowcharts, rubrics, and graphic organizers.

Social scaffolding involves direct interaction and guidance from teachers or peers. It can include coaching, questioning, clarifying, and providing feedback.

Scaffolding in education is about providing the right support at the right time to help learners achieve their goals. This can include breaking down complex tasks, focusing attention on essential aspects, and providing guidance and feedback.

Ethical considerations are paramount in educational research and decision-making. Educators must gather and analyze data responsibly, ensuring they are using research to improve teaching and learning, not just to achieve specific outcomes.

Traditional assumptions about teaching and learning are being challenged. The idea of the mind as a container for knowledge is giving way to a view of learning as a social process of knowledge construction.

Tech planning in schools is complex. It requires collaboration between teachers, administrators, and tech experts to balance security, accessibility, and educational needs.

Technology stewards play a crucial role in successful technology integration in schools. They bridge the gap between tech experts and educators, advocating for user-friendly systems and ensuring technology use aligns with educational goals.