Educational Technology Philosophy
My philosophy of educational technology is inspired by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards, which offer a framework for utilizing technology to enhance teaching by providing diverse learning experiences for all students and inspiring them to become lifelong learners.
What is Good Teaching?
Good teaching requires educators to also fill roles as learners, leaders, citizens, collaborators, designers, facilitators, and analysts. Utilizing the ISTE Standard for Educators encourages teachers to expand and deepen their practice, promote collaboration with their network, and rethink their traditional approaches to education and schooling. Good teaching helps students drive their own education through good learning to become empowered learners.
What is Good Learning?
Good learning is when students, guided by the ISTE Standards for Students, act as empowered learners, digital citizens, knowledge constructors, innovative designers, computational thinkers, creative communicators, and global collaborators. The focus is student driven; students are empowered to take ownership of their educational journey. Good learning occurs when students engage with knowledge worth knowing in a meaningful way, connect their learning to the real world, and build skills that extend beyond the classroom.
What is worth knowing?
Everyone has a different opinion about what information is worth knowing. From Bobbitt, Dewey, and Montessori to Tyler, Apple, and Greene, views vary on what knowledge is necessary or desirable. Some think skills applicable to the workforce and contributing to the economy are most important, others prioritize whatever will help prepare for college, while others believe one should pursue their own individual interests and curiosities. According to ISTE’s vision, schools should provide all students with experiences that prepare them to excel in learning, in life, and in lifelong learning.
What is the Purpose of Schools?
The purpose of schools is to support student learning. Ideally, all schools are good schools.
What are Good Schools?
Good Schools cultivate an environment that fosters good teaching and good learning. They accomplish this through the creation of a shared vision, developing and implementing comprehensive plans, ensuring equitable access, preparing educators, providing sufficient support, prioritizing high-quality learning activities, and conducting ongoing evaluations. Good schools help students become educated people.
Who is the Educated Person?
Guided by the ISTE Standards, educated individuals are responsible digital citizens who use technology to learn and educate. Educated individuals are resourceful, critical thinkers, communicators, and collaborators. They understand the intersectionality of technology and society and use digital tools for continued learning, problem solving, and teaching. Educated persons are lifelong learners.
Learn more about my personal Educational Technology Philosophy through my Digital Storytelling Reflection of Learning project.
References
- Flinders, D. J., & Thornton, S. J. (Eds.). (2022). The curriculum studies reader (6th ed.). Routledge.
- International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)