Learning Manifesto

Emerging issues related to digital learning and leading at the state, regional, national, and/or global context

Digital learning in the field of education is expanding on state, regional, and national scales due to technological advancements. Educational leaders acknowledge the necessity and advantages of digital learning, yet, like all innovations, there are both benefits and challenges involved. The increasing technological progress enables schools to offer a wider range of digital learning opportunities.

In the realm of elementary education, the integration of technology represents both a powerful tool and a profound responsibility. As educators we stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation, tasked with nuturing young minds while preparing them for a future that is increasingly digital and interconnected.

Positive Aspects and Challenges of Integrating Technology in Education Positive aspects include personalized learning, catering to different learning styles, and enhancing student engagement. Challenges involve the requirement for additional resources, time for training, software, and equipment. Teachers juggle multiple responsibilities in the classroom, and introducing technology may potentially increase their workload, leading to feelings of overwhelm. This situation calls for districts to devise innovative strategies to reduce teacher burnout.

What is right/wrong with education and what should the world do to enhance or fix it?

What I feel is wrong with education is standardized testing. I do believe there needs to be some accountability and assessment for what students learn, but I feel these tests hinder authentic learning by emphasizing on teaching the test and removing any choice students or teachers have in learning. Standardized testing can also have a negative impact on student confidence and adds more pressure to the students as well as the teachers. Standardized testing can help measure and track progress, however I feel they don’t always provide accurate data on the student’s abilities. Another problem I have seen with the STAAR test is how the questions are worded and presented. The way they have chosen to articulate the questions feels as if they are tricky or confusing on purpose.

I believe standardized testing is a key issue in education. While acknowledging the importance of accountability and assessing student learning, I find that these tests impede genuine learning by focusing on test preparation and eliminating the freedom of choice for both students and teachers. The emphasis on standardized testing can negatively affect student confidence, increasing pressure on students and teachers alike. While standardized testing can be useful for measuring and tracking progress, I think it may not always accurately reflect students' abilities. Additionally, I have observed challenges with the STAAR test in terms of question wording and presentation, which can come across as deliberately tricky or confusing.

In education, a significant issue is the insufficient funds allocated for teacher salaries and resources within school districts. From my own observations, there have been more budget cuts than increases in schools. Teachers find themselves with fewer classroom resources and often have to use their own money to buy supplies for their students. Despite the challenges in education, there are some positive aspects. Teachers generally invest a great deal of dedication and emotion into their work. Personally, I believe that forming strong relationships with students is crucial for being an effective educator. In the district where I am employed, I can confidently state that the administration prioritizes the students' needs when making decisions. To address these education challenges, a shift in mindset and compassion from policymakers is essential. Until then, teachers must continue providing students with the best emotional and academic support possible.