In today’s world, students have more access than ever to different types of technology in and out of the classroom. If we want our students to be prepared for the constant changing technology in the world, then we have to start preparing our students in the classroom. Many classrooms have access to interactive whiteboards, document cameras, desktops, laptops, ChromeBooks, iPads, iPods, tablets, digital cameras, and many other great technologies. From the looks of it, technology will continue to emerge so we must start preparing our students now.
I would first like to explain what equitable digital access means. Equitable digital access is making sure that ALL students have access to current and emerging digital devices and resources. It also means giving each student the opportunity to learn through the use of technology.
Some ways to ensure that each student receives equitable digital access in the classroom is to:
- Create a rotation schedule in your classroom for students to use the computer, iPad, iPod, etc. to compete rigorous learning activities. Depending on how much available time you have each day and how many students are in your class, you may find it easier to start a weekly rotation where a few students get on the computer each day until every student has had an opportunity to use the computer by the end of the week.
- Schedule time to use the computer lab at your school.
- Give students opportunities to conduct research by using technology.
- Give students assignments that require them to be creative using technology. For example, have students to pick someone in their community (mayor, police officer, firefighter, etc.) to interview while using a video camera, iPod, iPad, etc. to video the interview to share with the class.
It’s also important to remember that not every student will have access to technology at home. Therefore, you may want to consider letting these students check out a device to work on assignments/projects at home. If that is not an option at your school, you need to be sure to give these students an opportunity to complete assignments/projects at school.
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Information:
(n.d.). Retrieved July 01, 2017, from http://www.proteacher.org/c/730_Scheduling_Classroom_Computer_Time.html
Essential Conditions. (n.d.). Retrieved July 01, 2017, from https://www.iste.org/standards/tools-resources/essential-conditions/equitable-
Equitable digital access in your classroom? How do you ensure equitable digital access. (n.d.). Retrieved July 01, 2017, from
http://www.digitalcitizenship101.com/equitable-digital-access/
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