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Achieving Personalised Learning with Classroom Technology: Best Practices and Tips

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February 23, 2024

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In today’s education system, personalised learning has emerged as a powerful approach to meet the diverse needs of students. By tailoring instruction to individual learning styles and preferences, personalised learning fosters student engagement, promotes deeper understanding, and enhances student success. A key driver behind the implementation of personalised learning is classroom technology, which plays a pivotal role in creating dynamic and student-centred learning experiences.

Classroom technology, encompassing various digital tools and educational software, empowers educators to optimise student-centred learning. Through adaptive learning platforms and online learning systems, students can progress at their own pace, receiving targeted instruction based on their strengths and areas for improvement. Educational apps enhance personalised learning by providing interactive and immersive experiences supporting conceptual understanding.

Through the effective use of classroom technology, such as edtech tools, digital resources, and interactive platforms, educators can optimise student-centred learning experiences. By embracing personalised learning strategies and leveraging innovative technologies, schools can enhance student engagement, improve achievement, and pave the way for student success.

Teacher training is vital to effectively integrate classroom technology and personalised learning. Educators need support and professional development opportunities to maximise the benefits of instructional technology and learning management systems. Data-driven instruction, guided by a personalised curriculum and informed by student engagement and achievement data, enables educators to make informed decisions and continuously improve the learning experience.

Best classroom technology for personalised learning

Classroom technology facilitates personalised learning experiences in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape. By leveraging innovative tools and platforms, educators can tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering student-centred learning environments.

• Adaptive Learning Platforms

Adaptive learning platforms are intelligent educational systems that dynamically adjust content and instruction based on individual student needs. These platforms utilise sophisticated algorithms to analyse student performance and provide personalised recommendations for further learning. Adaptive learning platforms optimise student engagement and achievement by adapting to students’ strengths and weaknesses.

• Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Learning management systems are comprehensive platforms that streamline various aspects of teaching and learning. LMSs offer a centralised hub for curriculum delivery, communication, assessment, and progress tracking. They enable educators to design personalised curricula, provide feedback, and monitor student progress effectively.

• Online Learning Tools

Online learning tools encompass many digital resources that enhance personalised learning experiences. These tools include educational apps, interactive simulations, virtual labs, and multimedia content. By leveraging online learning tools, educators can provide students access to interactive and engaging content, facilitating deeper understanding and knowledge retention.

• Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive whiteboards combine traditional and digital technology, enabling interactive and collaborative learning experiences. With touch-screen capabilities and multimedia integration, interactive whiteboards foster active student participation and facilitate real-time feedback. They promote engagement, creativity, and critical thinking in the classroom.

Implementing personalised learning with classroom technology

personalised learning and classroom technology integration can revolutionise education by tailoring instruction to individual student needs. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will assist educators in successfully implementing personalised learning with classroom technology, ensuring improved student engagement, achievement, and overall success.

1. Understand the Foundations: Classroom Technology and Personalised Learning

Educators must grasp the fundamental concepts of personalised learning and classroom technology to embark on this transformative journey. Personalised learning tailors instruction to meet student’s unique needs and interests, fostering a student-centred learning environment. Classroom technology refers to digital tools, such as educational apps, interactive whiteboards, and adaptive learning platforms, that enhance instructional delivery and student engagement.

2. Establish the Necessary Infrastructure and Resources

Before diving into personalised learning with classroom technology, ensuring the necessary infrastructure and resources are in place is crucial. This includes reliable internet connectivity, sufficient devices (1:1 or mobile devices), and access to relevant educational software and learning management systems. Adequate teacher training on instructional technology is also essential to maximise the benefits of classroom technology in personalised learning.

3. Align Technology with Personalised Curriculum and Student Needs

To optimise the impact of classroom technology on personalised learning, it is vital to align the technology with the curriculum and individual student needs. This involves integrating digital tools and educational apps that support personalised instruction, adaptive learning, and data-driven instruction. By leveraging technology to tailor content, pacing, and assessments to student abilities, educators can create a truly personalised learning experience.

4. Seamlessly Integrate Classroom Technology into Teaching Practices

Integrating classroom technology into existing teaching practices requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Educators can start by identifying opportunities where technology can enhance instruction and student engagement. For example, interactive whiteboards can facilitate collaborative discussions and gamify lessons, while virtual reality can transport students to immersive educational experiences. Teachers can seamlessly integrate technology while maintaining pedagogical effectiveness by gradually incorporating technology and providing ongoing support.

5. Measure Student Engagement and Achievement

One of the significant advantages of personalised learning with classroom technology is the ability to gather data and measure student engagement and achievement. Teachers can leverage educational apps and digital tools to track student progress, identify areas for improvement, and provide timely interventions. Additionally, data-driven instruction empowers educators to make informed decisions, adapt instructional strategies, and ensure student success.

6. Embrace Ongoing Professional Development

Educators must embrace ongoing professional development to leverage the potential of classroom technology and personalised learning fully. Staying abreast of the latest edtech trends, instructional technology advancements, and research-based practices is crucial for effective implementation. Collaborative professional learning communities and conferences can provide opportunities to share best practices, gain insights from experts, and refine instructional approaches.

Enhancing student engagement with classroom technology

By leveraging the power of educational technology (edtech) tools, educators can create immersive and interactive learning environments that cater to individual student needs.

1. Classroom Technology and Personalised Learning

Classroom technology, when integrated effectively, can significantly enhance personalised learning experiences. Teachers can tailor instruction to match each student’s unique learning style and pace by utilising digital tools and educational apps. Adaptive learning platforms, for instance, provide personalised curriculum and adaptive assessments, enabling students to progress at their own pace while receiving targeted support. This individualised approach fosters student-centred learning, allowing students to take ownership of their education and actively engage with the material.

2. Interactive Whiteboards: A Gateway to Engagement

Interactive whiteboards are powerful tools that promote student interest and participation. These devices enable teachers to create visually stimulating lessons by incorporating multimedia elements like images, videos, and interactive simulations. Students can actively interact with the content, enhancing their understanding and retention. For example, a biology teacher can display a virtual dissection on the whiteboard, allowing students to explore and dissect virtual organisms in a risk-free environment. This hands-on approach sparks curiosity and deepens student engagement.

3. Gamification: Transforming Learning into Play

Gamification in education leverages game design elements to make learning more enjoyable and engaging. Educators can tap into students’ natural inclination towards competition and reward by integrating game-like features into lessons. Educational games and gamified platforms encourage active participation, collaboration, and problem-solving. For instance, a math teacher can introduce a digital game that challenges students to solve equations within a specific time limit, providing an exciting and interactive way to reinforce mathematical concepts.

4. Virtual Reality Applications: Immersive Experiences

Virtual reality (VR) is a cutting-edge technology that can transport students to virtual worlds, creating immersive learning experiences. Through VR headsets, students can explore historical landmarks, travel through space, or dive into the ocean’s depths. These virtual field trips enhance student engagement by making learning more tangible and memorable. For instance, a history teacher can take students on a virtual tour of ancient civilisations, allowing them to witness historical events firsthand. Such experiences foster curiosity, deepen understanding, and ignite a passion for learning.

Strategies for Leveraging Classroom Technology

To create immersive and interactive learning experiences with classroom technology, educators can employ the following strategies:

1. Integrate technology seamlessly: Ensure classroom technology aligns with instructional goals and curriculum objectives. Technology should enhance learning, not distract from it.
2. Provide adequate teacher training: Teachers should receive comprehensive training on effectively integrating and utilising classroom technology. This empowers them to maximise their potential and facilitate student engagement.
3. Encourage collaboration and peer learning: Use digital tools and platforms to promote peer-to-peer interaction. This fosters a sense of community and allows students to learn from one another.
4. Leverage data-driven instruction: Utilise educational software and learning management systems to collect and analyse data on student performance. This data can inform instructional decisions and enable targeted interventions.

Measuring student achievement with educational apps

In modern education, classroom technology and personalised learning have become integral to effective teaching and learning practices. Educational apps play a crucial role in measuring student achievement within the context of personalised learning. By leveraging technology in the classroom, educators can gain valuable insights into students’ progress, tailor instruction to individual needs, and facilitate data-driven decision-making.

Benefits of Data-Driven Instruction and Valuable Insights from Educational Apps

Data-driven instruction is a powerful approach that allows educators to make informed decisions based on objective student data. When integrated with educational apps, this methodology becomes even more potent. Such apps provide valuable insights into student progress, allowing educators to identify strengths and areas for improvement, assess learning outcomes, and customise instruction accordingly.

These apps facilitate the collection and analysis of data on various aspects of student performance, such as completion rates, accuracy, time spent on tasks, and quiz scores. By harnessing the power of technology, educators can easily track student achievement and identify patterns or trends in their learning journey. This data-driven approach enables teachers to personalise curriculum, differentiate instruction, and provide targeted interventions to support student success.

Different Types of Educational Apps for Monitoring and Assessing Student Performance

1. Adaptive Learning Apps: Adaptive learning apps utilise intelligent algorithms to tailor content and learning experiences to individual students. These apps dynamically adjust the difficulty and pace of instruction based on each student’s performance, ensuring a personalised learning journey. They provide real-time feedback, identify knowledge gaps, and offer targeted remediation, promoting student-centred learning and improved outcomes.
2. Gamification Apps: Gamification in education has gained popularity due to its ability to enhance student engagement and motivation. Gamification apps incorporate game elements into educational activities, such as challenges, rewards, and progress tracking. These apps encourage active participation, foster a sense of achievement, and make learning enjoyable. Educators can effectively measure students’ achievement levels by monitoring their performance and progress within gamified environments.
3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Apps: VR and AR applications in personalised learning offer immersive and interactive experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world scenarios. These apps allow students to explore virtual environments, manipulate objects, and engage in hands-on learning. Educators can assess students’ understanding, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking abilities through data captured during VR or AR activities.
4. Mobile Learning Apps: Mobile learning apps leverage the ubiquity of smartphones and tablets to facilitate anytime, anywhere learning. They enable students to access educational content, engage in collaborative activities, and receive personalised feedback on their performance. These apps support individualised instruction, foster student engagement, and provide valuable learning progress and achievement data.

Teacher training for effective instructional technology integration

The successful integration of classroom technology requires well-trained educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage these tools effectively. Teacher training programs have emerged as a critical component in empowering educators to harness the full potential of technology and create student-centred learning environments.

To fully understand the importance of teacher training in instructional technology integration, let’s explore the key reasons why educators must receive comprehensive training:

• Enhancing Student Engagement and Achievement:

Teacher training equips educators with the skills to effectively leverage classroom technology to engage students in their learning journey. By incorporating digital tools, educational apps, and interactive whiteboards, teachers can create dynamic and interactive lessons that captivate students’ attention, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Research shows student engagement is closely linked to academic achievement, and technology integration can significantly impact both.

• Facilitating Personalised Learning Environments:

Technology in the classroom enables personalised learning, catering to the unique needs and learning styles of individual students. Teachers can tailor instruction to student’s abilities, interests, and pace using adaptive learning platforms and educational software. This personalised approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning, improving outcomes and increasing student success.

• Supporting Blended and Online Learning:

Blended learning, which combines traditional classroom instruction with online learning experiences, has gained traction in recent years. Teacher training equips educators with the necessary skills to seamlessly integrate online learning platforms, educational apps, and digital tools into their lessons, enabling a seamless transition between in-person and virtual environments. This flexibility allows students to access educational content anywhere, promoting continuous learning and adaptability.

Skills and Knowledge Required for Effective Technology Integration

Educators need to develop specific skills and acquire relevant knowledge to effectively utilise classroom technology in personalised learning environments. Here are some essential areas for teacher professional development:

• Technical Proficiency:

Educators must acquire a solid foundation in using various forms of technology, including learning management systems, interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and virtual reality tools. This proficiency ensures teachers can confidently navigate and leverage these resources to enhance instruction and promote student engagement.

• Pedagogical Expertise:

While technology is a powerful tool, educators must understand how to integrate it seamlessly into their pedagogical approach. Teacher training programs should focus on strategies for using technology to create meaningful learning experiences, promote critical thinking, and encourage collaboration among students.

• Data-Driven Instruction:

An essential aspect of effective technology integration is leveraging data to inform instructional decisions. Educators should be trained in analysing student performance data collected through educational apps and digital tools. This data-driven approach enables teachers to identify areas of improvement, adapt instruction, and provide targeted support to individual students.

Professional Development Opportunities and Resources

Numerous professional development opportunities and resources are available to support teachers in mastering instructional technology. Here are some recommendations:

• Workshops and Conferences:

Attending workshops and conferences on instructional technology integration provides educators with valuable insights, best practices, and networking opportunities. Notable events in this domain include EdTech conferences, such as ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), which offer sessions tailored to teacher training.

• Online Courses and Webinars:

Many reputable organisations and institutions offer online courses and webinars on instructional technology integration. These programs allow educators to learn at their own pace and explore topics such as personalised learning, blended learning, and the effective use of educational apps. Platforms like Coursera, EdX, and Google for Education provide many relevant courses.

• Collaboration and Communities of Practice:

Teachers can benefit from collaborating with their peers and participating in communities of practice focused on instructional technology. Online forums, social media groups, and professional learning networks (PLNs) allow educators to share experiences, exchange ideas, and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Maximising 1:1 device programs in the classroom

Classroom technology and personalised learning have become integral to modern education. Implementing 1:1 device programs in personalised learning can offer numerous benefits while presenting unique challenges.

Benefits and Challenges of Implementing 1:1 Device Programs in Personalised Learning

1:1 device programs in personalised learning offer several benefits. Firstly, classroom technology enables student-centred learning, allowing students to learn at their own pace and explore topics that align with their interests and strengths. Educational apps, online learning platforms, and digital tools provide students with a wealth of resources and interactive content, enhancing their learning experience. Adaptive learning systems tailoring instruction to individual student needs, promoting personalised curriculum and improved student engagement.

However, implementing 1:1 device programs also presents challenges. Teachers must ensure that technology in the classroom is effectively integrated into the curriculum and instruction. This requires adequate teacher training in instructional technology and learning management systems. Additionally, teachers must continuously adapt their teaching methods to maximise the benefits of classroom technology while addressing potential distractions. Balancing screen time with other instructional activities and maintaining student focus can be challenging.

Strategies for Managing and Maximizing Individual Devices in Personalised Instruction

Teachers can employ various strategies to manage and maximise the use of individual devices for personalised instruction. 

• Firstly, it is crucial to establish clear classroom technology use guidelines, including expectations for responsible and productive device usage. Setting routines and incorporating periodic device-free activities promote a healthy balance between technology and other learning experiences.
• Teachers can leverage learning management systems to organise and deliver personalised curricula, assignments, and assessments. These systems facilitate data-driven instruction by tracking student progress, identifying areas of improvement, and tailoring instruction accordingly. Teachers can provide interactive and engaging learning experiences that promote student achievement using educational software and apps.
• Encouraging student collaboration through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications can enhance engagement and foster creativity. Additionally, integrating gamification elements into educational activities can make learning more enjoyable and motivate students to participate actively.

Leveraging 1:1 Device Programs for Personalised Learning Experiences

Consider a few examples of how teachers can leverage 1:1 device programs to personalise learning experiences and improve student outcomes.

1. In a language arts class, students can use their devices to access online reading materials, interactive whiteboards, and educational apps. These resources enable personalised reading assignments, interactive discussions, and real-time feedback, fostering language proficiency and critical thinking skills.
2. In a science class, students can explore virtual reality simulations to enhance their understanding of complex scientific concepts. They can conduct virtual experiments and visualise abstract ideas, promoting deeper comprehension and retention.
3. In a mathematics class, students can access adaptive learning platforms that offer personalised math exercises based on their skill level and progress. Immediate feedback and targeted interventions can help students overcome learning gaps and improve mathematical fluency.

By incorporating such strategies, teachers can maximise the potential of 1:1 device programs, creating dynamic and personalised learning environments that support student success.

Conclusion

Personalised learning has become a powerful approach to cater to diverse student needs in today’s educational landscape. Integrating classroom technology offers educators unparalleled opportunities to create engaging and individualised learning environments. Teachers can optimise student-centred instruction and enhance student achievement by harnessing the potential of edtech, adaptive learning, and digital tools. Effective implementation of personalised learning with classroom technology begins with selecting the best tools. From interactive whiteboards to educational and virtual reality applications, a wide array of options empowers educators to personalise the learning experience. Leveraging mobile learning and 1:1 device programs enables individualised instruction and maximises student engagement.

Educational apps offer valuable insights and data-driven instruction to measure student achievement and enhance learning outcomes. Educators can harness instructional technology and learning management systems to tailor personalised curricula, ensuring student success. Furthermore, comprehensive teacher training is pivotal in effectively integrating technology into instruction. Thus, personalised learning supported by classroom technology is an innovative approach that revolutionises education. Educators who optimise edtech, digital tools, and instructional technology foster student success and create a future-ready generation. By embracing the possibilities offered by technology, teachers can unlock the full potential of their students, creating engaging and individualised learning environments that nurture lifelong learners.

FAQs

What are classroom technology and personalised learning?

Classroom technology uses various digital tools and resources in educational settings to enhance teaching and learning experiences. On the other hand, personalised learning is an instructional approach that tailors education to meet individual students’ needs, interests, and learning styles. It focuses on allowing students greater control over their learning pace, content, and path.

How does technology enhance personalised learning?

Technology enhances personalised learning by providing students access to various educational resources, interactive activities, and adaptive learning platforms. It enables individualised instruction, immediate feedback, and personalised assessment. Technology also supports collaboration, communication, and self-directed learning, empowering students to take ownership of their educational journey.

What are the benefits of using classroom technology for personalised learning?

Using classroom technology for personalised learning offers several benefits. It promotes student engagement, motivation, and active participation in the learning process. It accommodates diverse learning styles and allows students to learn independently. Technology enables differentiated instruction, providing tailored content and resources to meet individual needs. It also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills, crucial for success in the digital age.

How can edtech support student-centred learning?

Educational technology (edtech) supports student-centred learning by facilitating personalised instruction, promoting active learning, and providing opportunities for collaboration and inquiry-based exploration. Edtech tools allow students to access and manipulate information, engage in project-based learning, and creatively demonstrate their understanding. They also enable teachers to track student progress, provide timely feedback, and adjust instruction accordingly, ensuring individualised support.

What are some examples of digital tools for personalised learning?

Some examples of digital tools for personalised learning include adaptive learning platforms like Khan Academy and DreamBox, which provide tailored content based on students’ needs. Learning management systems (LMS) such as Moodle and Canvas enable teachers to organise and deliver online materials and assessments. Educational apps like Duolingo and Quizlet offer interactive and gamified learning experiences. Productivity tools like Google Docs and Evernote support collaboration and organisation. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications provide immersive and experiential learning opportunities.

How is blended learning implemented with technology?

Blended learning combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning experiences. Technology is vital in implementing blended learning by providing digital resources, communication tools, and online platforms. Teachers can use learning management systems to deliver online content, assignments, and assessments while incorporating in-person activities and discussions. Blended learning allows flexible scheduling, individualised instruction, and personalised feedback, catering to student’s diverse needs and learning preferences.

What are the advantages of online learning in personalised education?

Online learning offers several advantages in personalised education. It provides flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace, anytime and anywhere. Online platforms offer various resources, including multimedia materials, interactive simulations, and virtual labs, catering to different learning styles. Online assessments and adaptive learning systems provide immediate feedback and personalised recommendations. Additionally, online learning fosters self-directed learning skills, digital literacy, and independence, preparing students for lifelong learning in the digital age.

Which educational apps are recommended for personalised learning?

Several educational apps are recommended for personalised learning. Khan Academy offers various subjects and adaptive exercises to support individualised learning. Duolingo is a popular app for language learning with personalised lessons and gamified activities. Quizlet helps students review and memorise content through flashcards and interactive quizzes. Seesaw provides a platform for student portfolios and communication between teachers and families. Edmodo allows for collaborative learning and sharing of resources. These are just a few examples, and the choice of apps depends on the specific needs and goals of the learners.

How do interactive whiteboards contribute to personalised learning?

Interactive whiteboards contribute to personalised learning by providing interactive and engaging experiences. They enable teachers to deliver dynamic lessons, incorporating multimedia resources, interactive activities, and real-time annotations. Interactive whiteboards facilitate whole-class or small-group discussions, allowing students to participate and collaborate actively. They also provide immediate feedback and allow for differentiation through various multimedia tools and applications. Interactive whiteboards enhance visual and kinesthetic learning, promoting student engagement and understanding.

What is gamification in education and how does it promote student success?

Gamification in education involves incorporating game elements, such as challenges, rewards, and leaderboards, into the learning process. It promotes student success by increasing motivation, engagement, and participation. Gamified learning experiences offer clear goals, immediate feedback, and a sense of achievement, fostering a positive learning environment. Games can provide immersive and interactive simulations, allowing students to apply knowledge and skills in realistic contexts. Gamification also promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. By making learning enjoyable and meaningful, gamification enhances student motivation and helps create a lifelong love of learning.

How can virtual reality be used for student achievement?

Virtual reality (VR) can be used for student achievement by providing immersive and experiential learning experiences. VR allows students to explore realistic simulations, visit historical sites, conduct virtual experiments, and engage in interactive scenarios. This hands-on and multisensory approach enhances understanding and retention of complex concepts. VR also caters to different learning styles, as students can learn through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic experiences. It fosters curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, VR enables virtual field trips, overcoming geographical and financial limitations. By expanding students’ horizons and creating memorable learning experiences, VR contributes to student achievement and deeper learning.

What are the applications of augmented reality in education?

Augmented reality (AR) has various applications in education. It can overlay digital content, such as 3D models, videos, or information, onto the real-world environment, enhancing understanding and engagement. AR enables interactive and immersive experiences, such as anatomy simulations, virtual tours, or language learning with real-world object recognition. It promotes active exploration, critical thinking, and problem-solving. AR can also facilitate collaborative learning, allowing students to collaborate on AR projects or solve challenges. By bridging the virtual and physical worlds gap, AR expands learning possibilities and makes educational content more accessible and engaging.

What are the benefits of mobile learning in personalised instruction?

Mobile learning, or m-learning, offers several benefits in personalised instruction. It provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to learn on their devices anytime and anywhere. Mobile apps and platforms offer personalised content and adaptive learning experiences based on individual needs.

M-learning enables microlearning, where students can access bite-sized lessons or review materials on the go. It fosters collaboration and communication through mobile-based discussion forums or group projects. Mobile devices facilitate multimedia learning, as students can easily capture photos, record videos, or access interactive resources. With mobile learning, students have personalised learning at their fingertips, empowering them to take control of their education.

How do 1:1 device programs benefit students?

1:1 device programs, where each student is provided with a personal device, benefit students in several ways. They promote personalised learning by giving students access to digital resources and tools tailored to their needs and interests. With their own devices, students can learn at their own pace and explore topics of interest independently. 1:1 device programs enhance digital literacy skills as students become proficient in using technology for research, collaboration, and creation. These programs also level the playing field, as all students have equal access to educational resources and opportunities. 1:1 device programs prepare students for success in a technology-driven world by fostering engagement, creativity, and critical thinking.

How can teachers receive training in instructional technology?

Teachers can receive training in instructional technology through various avenues. Professional development workshops and courses offered by schools, districts, or educational organisations, provide hands-on training in using technology tools and integrating them into instruction. Online platforms like webinars, tutorials, and e-learning modules offer flexible and self-paced learning opportunities. Collaborative learning communities, like subject-specific forums or social media groups, allow teachers to share best practices, resources, and ideas for instructional technology. Peer mentoring and coaching programs enable experienced teachers to support their colleagues in adopting and effectively using technology. Additionally, universities and colleges often offer graduate or continuing education programs focused on instructional technology. Teachers can enhance their instructional practices and empower their students through technology by actively seeking training and staying updated on emerging technologies.