Leveraging Technology to Provide Equitable Learning Experiences

6

Through recent research on the Science of Reading, educators have gained a deeper understanding of how background knowledge and a strong vocabulary are essential components of skilled reading. But despite educators’ ongoing efforts to provide this foundational knowledge, significant inequalities in student learning and ability persist.

As a self-proclaimed nomadic educator, I have observed various educational systems addressing these disparities in different ways.  I have been fortunate enough to work in several different districts in my home state of South Carolina. In addition, I’ve had the privilege of teaching in Texas and in the Middle Eastern nation of Kuwait. As a result, I have seen firsthand the advantages more privileged student populations have in reading compared to their underprivileged counterparts.

Some school systems focus on early intervention programs or offer extended field studies as enrichment opportunities for students. Others choose specific curricula or collaborate with families to create additional enrichment experiences for students. But despite educators’ best efforts, an “enrichment gap” persists in schools, as some students are able to access high-quality experiences that build background knowledge and vocabulary, while others are not.

Fortunately, advancements in edtech are bringing innovative tools to the effort to close the “enrichment gap.” With these new tools and resources, educators are empowered to create authentic learning experiences that ignite student curiosity, engage students meaningfully in learning, and enhance students’ background knowledge and vocabulary.

Among the best edtech resources for student enrichment I have seen are:

National Geographic Explore VR

National Geographic Explore VR allows students to explore the world around them through virtual reality. The app allows students to explore inaccessible areas of the world or even to travel back in time for an immersive historical experience.  If students are learning about diverse ecosystems that may be foreign to them, educators can use this application to expose students virtually.  For example, students living in the desert regions of Arizona can now be transported to snowy mountain tops to observe how specific animal adaptations help them to survive. 

Discovery Education- Career Connect and Experience

Discovery Education continues to think of innovative ways to expose students to new ideas.  Along with the vast bank of virtual labs, videos and photographs, interactives and more within Experience, they have now added a new tool called Career Connect.  With Career Connect, educators can set appointments with volunteers in a particular field to join their class virtually to discuss any related topic.  For example, if a class is studying geometry, they can connect with an Architect who can not only make real world connections to what kids are learning, but also provide an authentic conversation, bringing content vocabulary alive. Bonus: in many states, including my home state of South Carolina, Discovery Education Experience is provided at no cost by the state Department of Education.  Check with your school administrators to see if you have access to this great resource.

Magic School

Magic School AI uses artificial intelligence to provide personalized learning experiences. With Magic School, educators can provide tailored resources and activities that meet individual learning needs, fostering deeper engagement and understanding. Educators could streamline lesson plans using Magic School AI to create more inclusive learning experiences. If you know that your students are limited in their background knowledge of different gases before teaching the states of matter, the AI component of Magic School can help create meaning visuals to deepen student understanding. 

Visuwords

Visuwords serves as an interactive graphical dictionary that helps students visualize the relationships between words, enhancing their vocabulary. Educators can use the site to facilitate discussions about synonyms, antonyms and their contextual usage, making vocabulary learning more dynamic.  For instance, while studying a literary text, a teacher might use Visuwords to explore words like “happy,” “joyful,” and “elated,” showing students how these synonyms differ in connotation and usage. This tool not only supports expansion of vocabulary but also aids in the development of critical thinking skills. 

Thinglink

This platform allows educators to transform images and videos into interactive experiences. By embedding links to additional resources, discussions and multimedia, traditional lessons are transformed into immersive experiences, making subject matter more accessible and engaging for all students. Aligning perfectly with the goal of providing equitable learning experiences, Thinglink empowers every student to connect with and explore topics at their own pace, ultimately enriching their background knowledge and vocabulary.

By leveraging these technologies, educators can not only address existing inequities but also create engaging and personalized learning environments that foster a love of learning as they build background knowledge and vocabulary skills. These tools empower educators to reach all students, ensuring that every child can build the knowledge and skills necessary for success in school and beyond.

Subscribe to edCircuit to stay up to date on all of our shows, podcasts, news, and thought leadership articles.