Survey of School Administrators Explores Digital Classrooms, Major Challenges -- THE Journal

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Survey of School Administrators Explores Digital Classrooms, Major Challenges

By Stephen Noonoo
11/16/11

Nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of school administrators who responded to a recent survey said 1:1 computing classrooms where teachers act as a coach for students are the future of education, in a poll that looked at some of the changes, opportunities, and challenges that lie ahead for schools.

More than 300 district superintendents, assistant superintendents, and school principals from districts with 2,500 students or more participated in the online survey, which was fielded by Interactive Educational Systems Design (IESD) and funded by curriculum provider Time To Know, a company that provides solutions for 1:1 computing classrooms.

When asked their preference for a comprehensive curriculum if cost were not a factor, 80 percent of respondents indicated a preference for a comprehensive curriculum program with 1:1 computer access and an interactive whiteboard in combination with some print or printable electronic materials. Only 5 percent of respondents preferred the opposite--most materials presented in a print format with some supplemental work conducted on computers.

A vast majority (84 percent) of respondents also said 21st century skills--which included critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to think creatively--are a high priority.

When it came to challenges, 69 percent of the administrators polled cited budget constraints as a top concern; 58 percent cited academic achievement challenges related to student performance and learning as a top concern. Of those who identified academic achievement challenges, the largest percentage (66 percent) of respondents identified "low testing performance" as one of their top concerns in this area; 38% identified "students not motivated to learn and not engaged in the learning process" as a top concern.

“It’s clear that educators believe that effectively integrating technology in the classroom will play a key role in preparing students for success in our global economy,” said Ellen Bialo, president of IESD in a statement.

The survey has a margin of error of ±5.5 percent.

About the Author

Stephen Noonoo is associate editor of T.H.E. Journal. He is on Twitter @stephenoonoo.

Comments

Tue, Nov 22, 2011 Chris

It is nice that administrators see the need for technology, but until the majority of teachers are willing to utilize technology in such a manner that it builds student proficiency in their academic subject and concurrently utilizes high level technology skills, there will be no changes. As the previous comment states "technology is nothing more than a tool." It is not a panacea to the solve students low achievement by itself, nor is it substitute for good teaching. As a teacher who has utilized technology in the classroom for many years, I have found that most programs that are funded are short sighted as they miss the point on how to incorporate high level thinking skills concurrently with technology. Teacher training is also important and without a sustainable training component, computers in the hands of students just become toys. With all the hype of 1:! computing, it would be nice if the government would step up and fund these programs. States are strapped and those schools who do have computers will find that within a few years they have to be replaced. Finally, people should look at the most recent studies done on 1:1 computing which show little effect on student achievement. No decision should be made without a clear goal as what is measurable achievement for students using computers.

Fri, Nov 18, 2011 Daniel NYC

Maybe we could just implant chips into children's brains, and upload information. Yeah, that'll do it.

Fri, Nov 18, 2011

Fri, Nov 18, 2011 John FL

Here we go again - another silver bullet! For decades the mantra has been technology yet not only has it failed to live up to all of the pundits, but it continues to be the savior. I have used the most exotic technology for over 40 years and when it is the correct match for the mission and all involved in using it are fully trained then success does come. However, this only occurs in a very disciplined environment where expectations are clearly identified and resources are adequate and politics are sidelined.
Technology is a tool nothing more. Depending on it or any single item just creates excuses when progress is not made. When I list items needed in our educational system I place a broken governance system at the top of must do changes. I follow that by dropping the” green gap” as the most often used excuse for a lack of progress. I follow these by pointing out that educators in general have no clue of what is known about the neuroscience of the brain. I would list this as one of the real game changers.
If a level playing field is even possible then depending on single things from technology to the newest and greatest program will only muddy the picture. In effect I am saying that if you don’t know where you are going you will not ever get there. In my mind every state must get on the same page and this means more than standards. In simple terms identify the end state we want for our students (I have many) insure it is measurable such that we know it was achieved and create the plan to get there.

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