Equity in Learning Technology

Equitable use of technology in learning covers a vast arena. One cannot assume that everyone has the same access to technology or that assignments using such are fair and equitable. Technology can create equity in a classroom and when used effectively, "it can remove barriers to learning materials, supports students where they are across varied learning contexts and needs, and gives educators more insight into the learning environments they’re creating" (Anderson, 2019). Technology evens the playing field of access and quality of content, so long as teachers understand their students and plan lessons based upon accessibility. Equitability is everyone having equal access and equal opportunities to work and learn based on technology access.

Ethical Use in the Classroom

Ethical use of technology is not just about equality. Equality is not equity. Equality seeks to give the same playing field to all learners and looks at the barriers being the need to have the same starting point. However, equity offers that all factors are taken into consideration and that the playing field is accommodating to those with greater barriers versus others who have less (Noguera, 2019). Equity is about acknowledging that some students will have regular access to computers and internet, while other students will be challenged to gain such access.

Creating an equitable classroom takes into consideration these differences and creates a supportive learning environment that grants access to all at the same level and considers alterations for those that don't have what others might take for granted. The digital divide often results form socio-economic issues as well as geographic, political and other issues. It is a teachers charge to ensure these challenges are considered for all and that accommodations are made.

Social Responsibility with Technology

As educators "we must inspire young people to hold a positive vision of the future - to believe we can do better, live better, be kinder and be fairer" (Berman, 1990).Technology is the epitome of "with great power comes great responsibility" and offers that students and educators are partners in being socially responsible with the usage, access and requirements of technology. Being a socially responsible person means critically thinking beyond themselves and using common sense in interactions with others. It's taking into account another's feelings and perceptions and making sure to be diligent in how and what technology is used for in daily life. Cyber bullying, stalking, inappropriate access of materials are just a few things that a socially responsible person considers when using such powerful communications and technology devices.

We all inhabit this tiny world of ours and being socially responsible means that we are responsible to the society we live in and ensure that our actions support positive momentum in that society and not used to degrade, demean of breakdown others.

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