Tech Trends

Ed Tech Implementation Leaves Room for Improvement

• By Leila Meyer
• 05/09/16

Although schools have spent billions on computer hardware and software for the classroom, only 16 percent of teachers think their schools are using it effectively, according to a new report sponsored by online and blended learning service provider Edgenuity.

The report, Teachers’ Dream Classroom Survey, is based on an online survey of 400 middle and high school teachers across the United States. It found that 91 percent of teachers agree that "technology provides a greater ability for teachers to tailor lessons and homework assignments to the individual needs of each student." However, 48 percent say the technology in their classroom is outdated.

The survey also found that teachers who think their schools have done a good job integrating technology are significantly more likely to be satisfied with its effectiveness at facilitating learning and engaging students, and 80 percent of those teachers think technology helps them achieve learning objectives.

“The rush to technology has often been about devices, with less thought given to the instructional purpose for using computers in the classroom,” said Sari Factor, CEO of Edgenuity, in a prepared statement. “Educators are now beginning to focus on how to integrate technology to improve student outcomes.”

In addition to supporting personalized learning and student engagement, effective technology implementations can also help teachers save time, according to the report. The survey found that 61 percent of teachers think they need more time to plan, research and collaborate, and Edgenuity sees technology as a time-saver for teachers. Given more time in the school day, teachers said they would focus more on helping struggling students, developing creative lessons and tailoring lessons to students.

Other findings from the report include:

• 73 percent of teachers surveyed think classroom technology creates more opportunities for research projects;
• 71 percent think technology helps students learn through a combination of direct instruction and learning on their own; and
• 67 percent think technology helps personalize learning for each student.

Further information about the report can be found on Edgenuity's site.