Today's students have more access to digital learning experiences and the creation of content. As educators we need to mentor students in this evolving technological landscape. The ISTE Standards for Students and the ISTE Standards for Educators are frameworks to guide our work as we empower learners and rethink our approach to student driven learning. This website is a meant to be used as a model to mentor students as digital citizens, empowered learners, knowledge constructors and creative communicators. It is also meant to provide assistance to educators as they continue to be learners, citizens, designers, and facilitators in the digital environment.
There are an overwhelming number of digital tools which makes it difficult for students and teachers to know which ones are viable options for improving learning. The initial thought should be around purpose, what do you want students to be able to do or learn (objectives)? Thinking about purpose provides clarity by thinking about the end goal and moving past the newest, shiniest tool. When selecting a tool there are a number of factors to consider. These considerations range from device compatibility to data privacy to ISTE standards.
How will the technology meet student learning goals?
How will leveraging technology empower students as creators?
Is it collaborative with opportunities to for feedback?
Are students able to construct knowledge through various learning elements like critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, and inquiry?
Can the content be customized for personal learning?
Are students able to build knowledge through authentic, real world content?
Is it free or paid?
Is it compatible with the devices our students use?
Do students have to create an account to use the tool?
If so, what information is collected?
Do the terms of use state that students under 13 can use the tool?
Do you need to get parent permission?
What are the features of the tool that will help me meet my goals for student learning/to show student understanding?
What data/analytics is provided or collected?
Is the tool adaptive to the students needs?
In this episode of #Copyrighteous podcast, Diana Gill shares a simple way to support responsible tool selection in less than five minutes.