Schools are full of teachers using technology in wildly different ways. Some design elaborate lessons with built-in videos and live polls, while others use only core features for day-to-day instruction. Both approaches are effective, but they highlight a critical issue: most classroom technology forces teachers to adapt to it, instead of adapting to teachers.
The real solution isn’t making teachers change their methods. It’s designing tools that offer flexibility. When technology provides multiple ways to engage, it meets educators where they are, supporting diverse teaching styles and student needs.
Recently, EdSurge spoke with three educators – Rebecca Ganger, Elena Clemente, and Brendan Powell – who use interactive displays from ViewSonic in unique ways. Their experiences demonstrate what happens when technology becomes adaptable, rather than rigid.
Why Flexibility Matters in the Classroom
Teachers and students learn differently. Forcing everyone into one model is ineffective.
“Students need engaging systems to improve understanding,” explains Brendan Powell, an elementary STEM teacher. “Interactive technology makes coding more fun. Giving students choices piques their interest.” Elena Clemente, a veteran elementary teacher, adds that some students prefer interactive tools while others prefer choosing their own. The same applies to teachers: some want pre-made slides, others prefer blank canvases.
The key is choice. It allows both educators and students to use technology in ways that maximize engagement.
Overcoming Teacher Intimidation
Many teachers hesitate to adopt new tech due to complexity. The solution? Gradual onboarding and user-friendliness.
Clemente emphasizes the importance of demonstrating basics first – writing on the canvas, projecting slides – then allowing teachers to explore more advanced features at their own pace. “When teachers apply it in a lesson, the tool feels more approachable,” she notes.
Ganger points out that too often, new software requires mastering countless features just to get started. “Being able to use parts of the software and then incorporate more as you become familiar is a huge plus,” she says.
The Impact of Direct Interaction
When students directly interact with classroom displays, engagement skyrockets. Powell observes that students are more willing to discuss their reasoning and explain ideas clearly. Ganger adds that students are more focused and excited when actively involved.
Clemente highlights the increased conversation: “Students express their thinking out loud, building speaking and listening skills.” They take pride in sharing and navigating the interactive panel.
Keeping Students Actively Involved
Variety is essential. Ganger incorporates sounds, videos, and links into presentations, using game boards as review activities. Clemente uses individual whiteboards for accountability, calls on students to share examples, and encourages partner talks for peer learning. Calling students up in groups or teams to collaborate also keeps them engaged.
The Bottom Line: Empowering Educators
When technology works well, it simplifies teaching. Clemente explains she can easily share materials, provide visually appealing lessons, and engage students in hands-on activities. Ganger notes that interactive boards free up time typically spent lecturing, allowing for more one-on-one interaction and easier differentiation of material.
Ultimately, effective classroom technology isn’t about replacing teachers; it’s about empowering them. By adapting to their needs and fostering student engagement, technology can transform education for the better.
