In today's world, technology is easily accessible to students of all ages. In the classroom, we as educators prepare our students to be college and career ready by teaching them reading and math skills. Due to the constant change towards a more technological based society, we must also prepare students to embrace changes in technology.
What is equitable digital access?
Equitable digital access is where all students no matter their race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, etc. can have access to technology. Access to digital technology includes virtual tours, social media, infinite information, more efficient assessments, and the list goes on and on. Not only should students be provided with access to technology, but they should be given opportunities to learn through the use of the technology. We live in a society that is technological based; therefore it is important that we as educators provide students with the appropriate tools and resources to be successful.
Why is Digital Access Important?
- Enhances student learning
- Helps differentiate learning for all students
- Keeps students engaged and motivated to learn
Ways to Ensure Equitable Digital Access
- Create a schedule for students to use classroom technology.
- Provide guidance when using technology.
- Set a timer when using technology to ensure that ALL students have a turn.
- Encourage students to BYOD (bring your own device)
- Assign students projects that require research through the use of technology.
- Allow students to be creative while using technology.
Obstacles Associated with Digital Access
- Funding
- Many schools do not have the funding to provide each student with a device. However, teachers can apply for grants or other alternative funding.
- Understanding
- Many educators are not confident in using technology in the classroom. We need to advocate for more professional development for the betterment of our students.
- Communication
- Many parents are not aware of the importance of digital access. We as educators need to stress this idea and how using technology helps prepare students for the digital movement in society.
"We need technology in every classroom and in every student and teacher’s hand, because it is the pen and paper of our time, and it is the lens through which we experience much of our world.” – David Warlick
References
Information
- Wolohan, S. (2016, April 13). How Teachers Can Provide Equal Learning in a World of Unequal Access. Retrieved July 10, 2018 from https://www.edsurge.com/news/2016-04-13-how-teachers-can-provide-equal-learning-in-a-world-of-unequal-access
- Digital Citizenship. (n.d.) Digital Access. Retrieved July 11, 2018 from https://cunedigitalcitizenship.wikispaces.com/Digital+Acce
- Ark, T. V. (2017, March 1). 10 strategies promoting digital access and equality. Retrieved July 10, 2018 from http://www.gettingsmart.com/2017/03/10-strategies-promoting-digital-access-and-equity/
- Digital Access for Students [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oS_org4Zeh4
- Enhancing Learning with Increased Access to Technology [Video file]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/DsbweofAYyk
- Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education: iPad, Tablet, Computer, Listening Centers [Video file] Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulb4jl3xqs8
- https://resourced.prometheanworld.com/5-ways-using-tech-engage-students/
- https://ed.stanford.edu/news/what-decade-education-research-tells-us-about-technology-hands-underserved-students
- https://learning.linkedin.com/blog/education/the-best-tech-tools-for-getting-students-to-think-critically