Technology’s role in education is continuously expanding, but the focus is shifting from merely using digital tools (EdTech) to embedding these tools within a robust pedagogical framework (PedTech). But what exactly is PedTech, and why is it gaining traction among educators, especially in international schools?
UNDERSTANDING PEDTECH
PedTech, short for Pedagogical Technology, emphasizes the integration of digital technology based on pedagogical principles rather than just technological capabilities. This approach ensures that the use of technology in education is driven by clear educational goals, enhancing teaching and learning outcomes significantly.
Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith, a leading voice in this area, defines PedTech as a mindset that puts pedagogical intentions at the heart of any decision about using digital technology in education. Named one of the 50 most influential people in education by Education Business, Dr. Aubrey-Smith’s extensive experience includes founding PedTech, directing One Life Learning, and contributing to numerous educational publications and panels. Instead of asking, “What technology should we use?” she suggests PedTech should ask, “Why are we using this technology?” This shift from the “what” and “how” to the “why” ensures that every digital tool employed in the classroom has a purpose aligned with the educational objectives.
THE EVOLUTION FROM EDTECH TO PEDTECH
Traditionally, EdTech focused on implementing digital tools and exploring how they could support teaching. While this approach brought innovation to classrooms, it often centered around the technology itself rather than the educational outcomes. PedTech evolves from this by starting with educational goals and selecting technology that best supports these aims. It prioritizes pedagogical intentions, ensuring that technology enhances rather than distracts from the learning experience.
WHY PEDTECH MATTERS
Learner-Centered Focus: PedTech places learners at the forefront of technological decisions. By considering the diverse needs, preferences, and experiences of students, educators can create more effective and meaningful learning environments. This approach helps cater to individual learning styles and addresses specific challenges faced by students, making education more inclusive and equitable.
Introspective Teaching: PedTech encourages teachers to reflect on their pedagogical beliefs and practices. This introspection helps educators understand the impact of their teaching methods and how technology can support or enhance these methods. By aligning digital tools with pedagogical goals, teachers can create more cohesive and effective learning experiences.
Enhanced Accessibility and Inclusivity: One of the significant benefits of PedTech is its potential to improve accessibility and inclusivity in education. Technologies designed with pedagogical intentions can address diverse needs, including those of students with disabilities or from varied socio-economic backgrounds. For instance, multimedia resources, assistive technologies, and customizable learning interfaces can help break down barriers to education.
PEDTECH IN PRACTICE
International schools are uniquely positioned to embrace PedTech due to their autonomy and resources. By adopting a PedTech mindset, these schools can lead the way in demonstrating the true potential of technology in education. For example, instead of simply using the latest digital tool, schools can first identify their educational goals and then select technologies that support these goals, ensuring a more impactful and meaningful integration of technology in the classroom.
At Alma, the importance of integrating technology in a way that supports pedagogical goals is paramount. Alma’s comprehensive SIS platform and LMS tools are designed with the PedTech mindset, providing solutions that enhance teaching and learning while keeping the focus on educational outcomes. Whether it’s through seamless integrations with Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, Canvas, or Schoology, etc., Alma ensures that technology serves a clear educational purpose, making learning more engaging and effective.
