What's Happening?
In response to growing concerns about excessive technology use in schools, ISTE and GreatSchools.org have launched a pledge to promote deliberate and safe tech use in education. The pledge includes five recommendations for schools: creating clear tech policies,
training educators, purchasing vetted technology, teaching digital citizenship, and engaging families. Schools that commit to the pledge can earn a 'safe and committed' technology badge. This initiative comes amid a 'techlash' where many parents and educators express concerns about the amount of screen time in schools. The pledge aims to reassure parents that schools are using technology thoughtfully to enhance student learning.
Why It's Important?
The initiative addresses widespread concerns about the impact of technology on students' education and well-being. By encouraging schools to adopt thoughtful tech policies, the pledge aims to improve the quality of digital learning and ensure that technology is used to support educational outcomes rather than detract from them. This is particularly important as digital tools become increasingly integrated into the classroom. The pledge also highlights the need for transparency and communication between schools and families, fostering trust and collaboration in the educational process.
What's Next?
Schools that adopt the pledge will work towards implementing the recommended practices, potentially leading to more effective and responsible use of technology in education. As schools earn badges, they may serve as models for others, encouraging wider adoption of the pledge. ISTE and GreatSchools.org will continue to refine the approval process for the highest badge level, ensuring that schools meet rigorous standards. The initiative may also prompt further discussions and policy changes at the state and national levels regarding technology use in education.
