Making smarter decisions about classroom technologies
In the 21st century, the proliferation of digital media and technology has fundamentally changed the way we learn. More than ever, children carry computers in their pockets and ever-expanding internet connectivity promises to reach even the most remote classrooms, putting a wealth of information at student’s fingertips. And there are growing demands from parents, educators, governments, and donors to incorporate educational technologies as part of children’s core curricula. But how does a teacher or administrator decide which technology is a good fit for their classroom? And especially in a global development context, how does a donor know that an investment in technology is the right approach to ensure learning outcomes — that a donation of tablets won’t end up in the corner after a year, collecting dust? To answer these kinds of common, but challenging questions, MIT researchers have just launched a new decision-making tool for teachers, administrators, governments, global development practitioners,...