Report: 84% of US teachers dissatisfied with current edtech
Only 16% of teachers in the US think schools are incorporating technology effectively in the classroom, according to a new report by Edgenuity. The report also suggested that 48% believe the technology currently used in their school is outdated, despite US districts investing $6bn in edtech in 2015. However, 91% agreed that technology helps to personalise teaching, allowing tailored lessons and homework assignments suited to individual needs. The study found that when used properly, technology helps student engagement and outcomes.

Dive Brief:

Just 16% of teachers give their home schools an excellent grade for incorporating tech in the classroom, a new "T eachers’ Dream Classroom Survey" from Edgenuity reveals; 400 middle and high school educators contributed answers .

new "T from Edgenuity reveals; 400 middle and high school educators contributed answers Nearly half of the teachers who responded to the survey said they consider the technology they have in their schools to be outdated.

91% of teachers surveyed agreed technology provides a greater ability for teachers to tailor lessons and homework assignments to individual needs students.

Dive Insight:

According to the "Teachers’ Dream Classroom Survey," 73% of educators said technology creates more opportunities for research projects, 71% noted it can help students learn through a combination of direct instruction and independent learning and 67% said they believe tech provides differentiated learning options for each student, resulting in a more personalized learning experience.

At the college level, a recent Eduventures survey found 60% of institution officials say their campuses are in early stages of planning the use of technology as part of their retention strategy. At the same time, 88% said they were using external tech, proving that a significant gap exists between concept and execution.

As the trend towards personalized learning and greater tech implementation rises in the U.S., it's important to begin any consideration of a new technology initiative with a solid brainstorming session, collecting input from school staff and students in order to better articulate learning needs. That way, tech will serve a greater purpose, and school leaders will be better positioned to lead with tech, rather than following or trying to keep up with gadgetry.