Rethinking technology in schools

SCHOOL PROGRAM

Rethinking technology in schools

by
DR. MARK WILLIAMS

Better ways to use technology in schools to improve learning outcomes, health and wellbeing.

This program addresses the many problems that modern technologies are creating in the classroom. Learning outcomes, resilience, curiosity, tolerance and emotional intelligence are all declining whilst stress, anxiety, depression and suicide are rising. Money and technology alone are not the answer to innovative practices in our schools. We need a significant shift in our understanding. Teachers will learn how our brains learn and adapt and why modern technology is affecting students’ learning and wellbeing. We will discuss the current assumptions about technology in schools and how independent research has shown that many of these ideas are actually wrong.

Why do we need this course?

Over the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of technology in schools. The common reason given: it transforms the classroom and enhances learning. However, the research doesn’t support this notion. Modern technology such as smart phones, smart boards, tablets and laptops are affecting the way we think and how our brains develop. They are making us more stressed, anxious, depressed, and more likely to suffer from addiction. Australia is currently leading the way when it comes to technology in schools but outcomes in literacy, maths and science are falling. On the other hand, Silicon Valley executives are sending their kids to schools with limited or no technology. It is time for us to rethink our use of technology in schools.

What will be covered?

In an informative and challenging presentation, Dr Mark covers:

• Current beliefs about technology in schools.
• What the research shows us is actually happening.
• Neuroscience of learning and why devices are sub-optimal.
• Neuroscience of addiction and why device overuse is dangerous.
• New positive ways forward with technology in schools.

NOTE: This course can be combined with Smartphones Are Making Us Dumb, which works really well. I can run the Smartphones course for students and/or parents and this course for teachers. This is a great whole school approach and gets everyone on the same page.

The focus will be on how teachers can implement strategies in the classroom to improve learning, memory and most importantly mental health.