Technology is changing everything, including the way we educate our children. In this Q&A with Parent, Ryan Diesing, Chief of Technology & Innovation at Flagler County Schools, highlights the essential digital skills students need to thrive and offers a glimpse into the future of learning in Flagler County Schools.
What kinds of technologies are students engaging within Flagler County schools?
Mr. Diesing: In Flagler Schools, every student from kindergarten to 12th grade is equipped with a personal mobile learning device to support their educational journey. Younger learners in grades K-8 are issued iPads, while high school students receive MacBook Airs, ensuring age-appropriate tools for learning. While students in grades K-3 utilize their devices exclusively within the classroom setting, older students in grades 4-12 have the flexibility to take their devices home, fostering a seamless continuation of learning beyond school hours. Beyond their individual devices, students engage with a rich array of software applications, online educational resources and peripheral devices, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment that caters to diverse learning styles and maximizes their potential.
How is the District integrating technology into the classroom?
Mr. Diesing: Technology serves as a powerful tool, not the end goal. We work closely with teachers to ensure that every technology initiative directly supports and enhances standards-based instruction and learning. By keeping standards-based instruction and learning as the primary focus, we empower teachers to utilize technology as a tool to enhance engagement and interactivity in their lessons. We help teachers explore how digital tools can bring curriculum content to life, spark student curiosity and foster deeper understanding. Through ongoing professional learning opportunities and dedicated support from instructional technology specialists, we equip teachers with the confidence and skills needed to leverage technology to facilitate more engaging, interactive and effective teaching and learning experiences. This collaborative approach ensures that technology serves as a catalyst for educational excellence, fostering a dynamic and innovative learning environment for all students.
What specific digital skills do you believe are essential for students to learn in today’s educational environment?
Mr. Diesing: In today's technology-infused world, it's crucial for students to acquire a robust set of digital skills to navigate their educational journey and beyond. Technology is seamlessly integrated into every facet of our lives, and students need to be well-versed in digital tools to reach their full potential. These skills encompass not just basic computer literacy but also a deeper understanding of digital communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and ethical online behavior. With the ability to leverage technology effectively, students can unleash their creativity, collaborate seamlessly with others and become responsible, productive citizens in an increasingly digital world. It's our responsibility to equip students with the necessary skills to harness this power for their personal, educational and professional growth.
How can parents identify and nurture their children's interests in technology-related fields, such as coding or digital design?
Mr. Diesing: Parents can identify their children's interests by watching them interact with technology, talking to them about what they enjoy and introducing them to various technology-related activities. To nurture these interests, provide resources like coding games or creative software, create a supportive environment and celebrate their achievements. Collaborate on projects together; you could learn a new skill with your child, or even better, have them teach you a new skill they have recently learned. In addition to digital skills, promoting problem-solving and creativity is also essential.
With regard to technology in the classroom, what changes can parents expect in the future?
Mr. Diesing: In the future, parents can expect technology to play an even more significant role in their children's education. Learning will become more personalized, with tools utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) adapting learning to meet the individual needs of each student. Digital literacy will be emphasized, teaching students to use technology responsibly and effectively. Collaboration and communication will improve with tools that connect students, teachers and experts globally. The line between classroom and online learning will blur, allowing for flexible learning experiences. Finally, data will provide teachers with deeper insights into student progress, enabling them to provide more targeted support. While these changes hold great promise, it's important to ensure equitable access to technology and protect student privacy.
