AU's Center for Innovation Hackathon

Based on interviews with experts in the field, this booklet offers real-world examples of how educators can become active players in the procurement decision-making process. Frontline educators have a unique and invaluable perspective on adoption of edtech solutions that no other stakeholders have. They know what learning goals are difficult to achieve, have "on-the-ground" knowledge of what is age- and task-appropriate and know what tools students are more or less likely to use. Educators also have their own requirements for edtech solutions, for example, ease of use and accessible data to help them make informed decisions. However, too often, educators are left out of the evaluation and purchasing process that occurs at the district level. And even when they are involved, educators might not know what questions to ask or may not feel empowered to raise issues or point out potential problems. To take on a greater role in edtech decision-making, educators need to better understand the process and become more informed about the options available. That's where this guide comes in. Topics include: Supporting educators as critical consumers to help their school or district make informed decisions. Alignment with learning and teaching goals, with emphasis on solving real problems for students and teachers. Implementation and ongoing support to ensure that edtech solutions work in the classroom and that teachers feel supported in implementing them. Data interoperability and student privacy. Research and evidence that demonstrates a product's potential. This guide highlights ways educators can contribute to their district's purchasing and identifies key areas where educator insight can help others become more informed, critical consumers of edtech.

What the education field is facing now is nothing less than the complete digital transformation of classrooms and schools. Thus, the focus of edtech coaches and other tech leaders in schools must shift from simply bringing technology into schools and tracking resources to identifying how the elements of this changing landscape fit together to form a profoundly altered, improved version of education. With this change affecting entire school communities, informed individuals who can guide members of the community through the transition are essential. The problem is that there are not nearly enough certified tech coaches in schools, and those who are in place are not always adequately prepared to handle this new mission. This is true for both trained edtech coaches and those who are coming to this role through other avenues. This book includes: background on the changing education landscape and how to manage it; activities to help edtech coaches and other change agents put what they learn into action; practical tools, including to-do lists, action plans and checklists, to help you guide digital school change; and tips to help new and emerging tech coaches understand the process of change, resistance to change and how to move past it.

"ATD’s 2020 Trends in Learning Technology collects insights about the latest emerging tech and trends that are transforming the talent development profession from top experts. They give much food for thought about how talent development professionals should embrace, test, and adopt technology to advance their careers and organizations.

These learning technologies may span a broad variety of opportunities and applications, but one thing unites them: the human element of how to apply the technologies to help people work better. While some will continue to evolve and find a place in your technology toolbox for years to come, others may never be embraced. No matter your role in talent development or the makeup of your organization, it is critical to regularly review new technologies and trends and evaluate if and how they fit into your organization. This book will help you stay in the know."