“Assistive technology is one of the most powerful applications of technology in the classroom,” says HP Education Ambassador and co-host of the Reinvent the Classroom podcast Brett Salakas.
EducationDaily invited him to share his reflections and forecasts about where this brave new world may take us:
How does technology in the classroom benefit students?
“As a teacher, I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative impact it can have. I once taught a student with significant learning challenges, whose physical limitations made traditional learning tools almost insurmountable barriers.
With the introduction of voice typing and other assistive technologies, he was able to fully engage in classroom activities. Where he once struggled to write even two sentences or articulate his understanding of a text, he suddenly found his voice – both literally and figuratively. This same student eventually earned a PhD in physics, a journey made possible in part by the support of assistive technology.
However, as we embrace technological advancements, particularly with AI, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of humanity in our classrooms. The relationship between student and teacher remains vital. No amount of technology can replace the influence of a great teacher. As I often say in my keynotes, “No 15-year-old does linear equations because a computer screen tells them to. They do it because ‘Sir’ or ‘Miss’ at the front of the classroom asked them to. They explain the concept to them, they sat next to them when they were struggling to understand, and they do the hard task as a human response to the request from someone they have an actual relationship with.”
It’s when skilled educators are supported by well-integrated technology that we see the most remarkable learning outcomes. The 2023 UNESCO GEM report echoes this, stating that “Digital technology has dramatically increased access to teaching and learning resources.” But it’s the combination of exceptional teaching and the right tools that truly unlocks students’ potential.”
How can teachers support children’s tech tool learning in an equitable way?
“Ensuring equitable access to technology often begins at the leadership and procurement levels. These decisions are crucial in levelling the playing field across schools or entire systems.
In the classroom, teachers must avoid getting swept up in the latest software fad, which might benefit some students while leaving others behind. Instead, they should design tasks that are agnostic in terms of the tools students use or establish an ecosystem where all students receive the same training and access to quality tools. The focus should always be on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than on mastering a specific piece of software that might be obsolete by the time students graduate.
It’s important to remember that we’re nurturing the thinkers of tomorrow, not just training students to use today’s tools. Critical thinking, creative problem-solving, time-management, and other skills fostered through digital learning are the competencies that will serve students well into the future.
Clarity over the purpose of technology use is key. If a task can be completed more effectively on paper, there’s no need to force it into a digital format. Technology should only be used when it enhances the learning experience and serves a clear educational purpose.”
What is the tech tool Australian primary school and high school classrooms shouldn’t be without?
“The most essential tool isn’t a piece of hardware or software, but rather a well-trained teacher who is confident and proficient in using the tools at their disposal. Any large-scale procurement process aiming to integrate technology into schools must prioritise teacher training.
As the 2023 UNESCO GEM report rightly points out, the focus should be on learning outcomes, not just digital inputs. For example, in Peru, the distribution of over a million laptops without proper integration into pedagogy resulted in no significant improvement in learning outcomes. This underscores the importance of equipping teachers, not just classrooms, with the right skills and knowledge.”
How can today’s educators be supported and upskilled to better prepare students for the tech-related jobs of tomorrow?
“Ongoing professional development, both formal and informal, is crucial. Teachers need access to opportunities where they can meet, network, and learn from one another, gaining insight into best practices and evidence-based solutions that truly work.
Our education systems should aim to produce students who are not only intelligent and capable of independent analysis but who can also leverage technology to amplify their understanding and responses. This balance is essential for thriving in higher education and the workforce. Students who are overly reliant on technology without the ability to think critically, or those who have memorised facts without technological competence, will find themselves at a disadvantage compared to their peers who can balance these skills effectively.”
How do you see the future of technology in Australian classrooms?
“The goal of our school system is to prepare young people to become high-performing, functional members of society who contribute to the betterment of our country. Therefore, schools must reflect the needs of society, and technology is becoming an increasingly entrenched part of our daily lives.
AI is the current buzzword, and its presence in education will undoubtedly grow, just as it is in broader society. The challenge for educators is to harness AI effectively. My recommendation is to revisit traditional pedagogies and consider how AI can enhance them. For instance, feedback is known to have a high effect size on learning outcomes, but it’s challenging for a single teacher to provide consistent, detailed feedback regularly. AI, however, can offer real-time, personalised feedback that helps students refine their work and achieve higher quality outcomes.”
