How schools in Pennsylvania and Ontario are fueling student success through new tech in the classroom
Be sure to check out the suggested Huddle question at the bottom of this article to discuss this important topic with your students in class, if you feel it is appropriate.
Educators are divided on technology in the classroom. While a majority (58%) see investments in technology as having a positive impact on students’ learning, 42% reported feeling fatigued or overwhelmed by the rapid onset of unfamiliar tech tools.
With how quickly technology evolves, it’s understandable to be uncertain about new technologies. However, these tools can have a significant positive impact on students’ learning, well-being, and future. Ontario and Pennsylvania schools are paving the way, demonstrating how to seamlessly integrate technology into education. Their approach is teacher-friendly and empowers students to build valuable skills and discover their passions.
Middle school students take virtual flight in Pennsylvania
Beginning in fall 2024, fifth through eighth-grade students at Bentworth Middle School (BMS) in Washington County, PA, will participate in an intensive aviation curriculum. Students will read the same flying manual pilots use, study aircraft’s nuts and bolts, and practice their skills using best-in-class Redbird flight simulators in an immersive “simulation room.” BMS Principal Dave Schreiber spearheaded the program after recognizing that aviation connects to students’ interests in online gaming and eSports and, therefore, may motivate students to study the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts underlying flight. Schreiber also realized that while aviation is growing rapidly and pilots are in high demand, BMS students have few opportunities to explore the industry.
The flight simulators, a new technological addition to BMS, offer an extensive network of places to explore by air and the chance to practice the challenges pilots face in a low-stress environment. For example, students can try steering to land precisely on an aircraft carrier without the stress of causing damage if they miscalculate.
The simulation room also offers weather and navigation stations where educators can challenge students to predict the impact of changing weather conditions, air climates, GPS systems, radios, and more on flights.
BMS’s program and introduction of this technology allow students to explore aviation at a young age, helping them to decide whether piloting plays to their core values and interests before potentially committing to pursue it as a career. BMS’s program also models a way to introduce technology that enhances learning and fosters students’ future success without overwhelming educators. The interactive, gamified simulation room engages and excites students while simultaneously developing STEM, problem-solving, and adaptability skills that are transferable to and valued in the workforce. Since the curriculum has been in the works for years, educators have had time to get comfortable using the new devices, preventing confusion or technology fatigue when the program rolls out.
Mandatory technology courses in Ontario prepare high school students for STEM fields and skilled trades
Also, beginning in fall 2024, Ontario high schools will require students to graduate with a technology course in ninth or tenth grade. While the specifics of the course may vary, these courses must ensure that students are exposed to basic technological skills and have the opportunity to explore opportunities in STEM and skilled trades like construction and manufacturing. The courses will be taught by experts in each field of study.
Many districts are still ironing out how their schools will adopt the new requirements, but some have already rolled out specialized technology courses that will remain optional until the fall. For example, London District Catholic secondary schools now offer communications, computer science, construction, and transportation classes.
The change represents Canada’s commitment to encouraging students to enter in-demand, fast-growing industries that rely heavily on technology. Alongside encouraging students to study these subjects in school, Ontario has developed apprenticeship programs for Grade 11 students to fast-track their entry into skilled trades.
Ontario’s approach encourages a new perspective on technology as an essential tool for students’ future success and models one way to integrate technology into schools while avoiding technology fatigue. Rather than educators navigating unfamiliar devices, technological experts can share their passions and integrate technology into the learning process in a natural way. While a mandatory technology course may not work for every school, this curriculum will encourage educators to think of new ways to incorporate technology aside from adopting new learning tools.
The new curriculum requirement will also help students play to their core. Each school will offer multiple technology-focused course options, allowing students to explore different subjects and discover which suits their strengths, passions, and values. With this understanding, they are empowered to make an informed decision about which field to pursue.
How to help students find and nurture passions that play to their core
Bringing technology into the classroom can boost engagement, help students with different learning styles, and teach skills students may use daily in their future careers. However, it can be challenging to integrate technology into the classroom seamlessly. Recent initiatives in Ontario and Pennsylvania model how to effectively incorporate technology into school curriculums. Educators can build on these examples to design programs that are engaging and personalized to their classrooms, helping students discover the disciplines that play to their core. Another simple way to integrate technology into the classroom is through #WinAtSocial, The Social Institute’s teacher-friendly, gamified, online learning platform featuring multiple lessons that empower students to find their paths.
Here are some strategies for helping students find an academic focus and career that suits them:
- Help students understand their values and strengths. Construction may be a great fit for a student who loves to be outside, use their hands, and collaborate with a team, while computer science suits students who excel in math, prefer working alone, and don’t mind staying behind a desk. Knowing yourself is the first step in choosing a path that plays to your core.
- Make sure that students have the chance to explore different disciplines. BMS Principal Dave Schreiber is an example of an administrator who recognizes a gap in their school’s offerings. What subjects or fields may be missing at your school? Integrating these disciplines doesn’t necessarily mean implementing a whole new curriculum—it may mean starting a new club or partnering with local companies to offer internships for students.
- Empower students to use tech for good to explore their interests. Social media and tech have made it easier than ever to explore interests and build skills. Whether learning how to paint via a YouTube video or connecting with an expert on LinkedIn, technology can be a powerful resource for students looking for a future career path.
For more ideas on helping students find the right path, check out our #WinAtSocial lesson, Recognizing the role of values in choosing a career path or college major.
#WinAtSocial Huddle Question
Huddle with your students
We’ve learned about how schools in Pennsylvania and Ontario are introducing students to subjects they may not have known much about. If you were to unveil a new class in your school, what would it be and why? How could this course positively impact students’ futures?
The Social Institute (TSI) is the leader in empowering students by understanding students. Through #WinAtSocial, our gamified, peer-to-peer learning platform, we equip students, educators, and families to navigate their social world – in the classroom and beyond, online and offline – in healthy, high-character ways. Our unique, student-respected approach empowers and equips, rather than scares and restricts. We incorporate timely topics about social media, tech use, and current events that are impacting student well-being and learning. #WinAtSocial Lessons teach life skills for the modern day, capture student voice, and provide school leaders with actionable insights. Through these insights, students play an essential role in school efforts to support their own health, happiness, and future success as we enable high-impact teaching, meaningful family conversations, and a healthy school culture.