Educational Technology Research

Research Findings

While reading through current educational technology research findings, I connected most to the findings Project Tomorrow found in their 2022 Speak Up report on how technology can help leverage equity experiences in school. 

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They found that, "teachers in schools where the majority of students are students of color (54%) are more than twice as likely to identify equity as a top concern than teachers in schools where the majority of students are white (24%)" (7). I found this statistic to be not surprising, yet still important to acknowledge and share. I teach in a Title I school where 97% of my students are LatinX. I engage in discussions surrounding inequities on a regular basis with my colleagues in professional and personal settings. These discussions were not occurring on a regular basis where I grew up in an affluent, white suburban neighborhood and school. When I discuss my career with home friends and family, I am reminded that since moving away and growing in my career, I have different experiences and values than those I grew up with. This is why I am not surprised that teachers in schools where the majority are white students are not thinking of equitable learning experiences the way that teachers where the majority is people of color. When I think of equity in education, I do not just think of race and skin color. An equitable learning environment reflects on the teaching practices in regards to physical ability, learning ability, religion, familial structures, and more. Teachers who teach for majority white students, should still be considering and reflecting on how their teaching practices and school structures are benefiting or hindering all of their student population. Furthermore, they should be allowing students to see a window into other learning experiences in other schools that are different from their own. 

This report also found that, "teachers in schools serving students of color have an expanded list of needs compared to their colleagues in schools serving white students. The list from these teachers indicates the lack of equity in the types of tools and resources available in their schools for students and teachers," (10). This allowed me to reflect upon what resources and needs myself and the other teachers at my school are in constant conversations of needing. It seems like there is always a tangible item or additional staff member that we need to serve our students best. I recently was reflecting on this while watching the hit show "Abbott Elementary." This show has many similarities to my Title I school. They have an entire episode dedicated to their lack of supplies! 

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Finally, as educators we should understand that equity is about more than just providing a student with a Chromebook and a hotspot (14). The learning experience that you provide that student with the technology matters. In 2022, most students have access the internet in some capacity. However, not all students have people in their lives who will show them how to use the internet to expand their mind and broaden their understanding of what they are capable of accomplishing. We as teachers, can be all of our students cheerleaders and coaches for how to use the internet to achieve their dreams. 

The Importance of Educational Research

Educational research is important for all educators to explore so our teaching practices stay relevant and current. The age gap between myself and my students will continue to widen as I continue to teach. It is my duty to myself and my students to stay a life-long learner in education. There is always something a teacher can improve upon. This can be related to content, technology, behavior management, or more.