In the last episode of Unpacking innovationHost Michelle Dawn Mooney sits down with Boxlight EOS Education L&D Specialist Evan Brus to explore how educators can prepare for a technology-enhanced school year. With Evan’s extensive experience in both college teaching and edtech, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you make the most of new tools and meet technology challenges head-on. Read some highlights from the episode.
The importance of being prepared for technology
Each new school year highlights the crucial need to be technology-ready. While technology can be fun and exciting, it is not always foolproof. A well-prepared technology environment improves efficiency, increases comfort, and builds confidence for both teachers and students. By proactively addressing technology challenges, teachers It can ensure a smoother and more engaging classroom experience.
Evan Brus emphasizes the importance of this preparation. He shares, “I work with teachers day in and day out to solve any problems they have because… No matter how fun and exciting technology is, it always comes with some downsides and there are always some little kinks to work through.”
Practical measures for teachers
Evan shares practical steps educators can take to ensure they are prepared for integrating technology into their classrooms:
- Check devices:Ensure all devices are working properly, including individual student devices and digital signage. Interactive flat screensand audio equipment.
- Update software: Address software updates to avoid disruptions during class. “Some things need updates… every once in a while you come across an app that forces you to update it before you can use it. And if you’re trying to do it for the first time in front of your (class)… they get bored for a minute while it loads. It’s never a good experience,” Evan explains.
- Explore new tools: Once the basics are covered, it's time to explore New tools and programs that might be available for the upcoming school year. This is where the fun begins. Evan encourages teachers to try new things and see what might be beneficial for their classrooms saying, “After you’ve done the basics, it’s time to do some exploring and see what might make sense in your classroom for next year.”
- Keep systems up to date: It is also important to keep rosters and learning management systems (LMS) up to date. Ensuring that all students are properly registered in the LMS is crucial for smooth communication and task management.
Final thoughts
Being technologically prepared for the new school year is essential for both teachers and students. It ensures a smoother, more efficient experience in the classroom and helps build confidence in using technology. As Evan Brus says, “Don’t stress yourself out unnecessarily. My hope is that some of this will make your life a little easier.”
For more detailed information and tips, be sure to watch the full episode of Unpacking innovation:
Are you looking for comprehensive technological solutions? Visit www.boxlight.com.
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