The adoption of technology by schools and colleges has undoubtedly been accelerated by the pandemic. – Teachers
For example, it has accelerated the integration of video software and cloud-based platforms into teaching practices – making remote working a possibility for students learning from home. It has also allowed for the introduction of different types of content to support the language learning experience, from interactive quizzes to extensive video and audio resources, and language learning apps that can be accessed on the move.
However, today’s teachers continue to face the challenge of deciding how to make the best use of technology for learning, alongside balancing the varying needs of students impacted by a disrupted learning experience and juggling multiple pressures – lack of time, parental expectations, curriculum changes to name but a few. Learners often do not have the skills to effectively learn through technology most effectively, and it goes without saying that teachers need the right kind of professional development and support to help them motivate students through digital technology. The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) has developed a set of standards that recognizes that teachers play seven different roles when using technology: learner, leader, citizen, collaborator, designer, facilitator, and analyst. Teachers are therefore crucial to the success of technology in the classroom – it cannot be considered intrinsically motivating. Technology needs a teacher to take on each of these roles when implementing it, to ensure it is successful.
For example, one of the main hurdles that teachers must overcome is selecting, adapting, and implementing technology in a way that motivates learners, not just in the short-term but throughout their studies. Motivating learners on an ongoing basis requires teachers and other stakeholders to have a deep understanding of the limitations and potential of specific technologies, the realities of implementing them and how learners and teachers can best be supported in this process. Meeting this challenge is vital because motivation is a key enabler of good learning outcomes, and in encouraging lifelong learning.
