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The global market for educational technology has grown exponentially in the past few years. Now, analysts expect its net worth to increase by nearly 20% over the next seven years. This is wonderful news for students who currently lack access to quality education. Tech can also lower classroom costs and help more students learn in ways that suit them. However, it’s often difficult to make the most of edtech and find practical ways to integrate it into the classroom. Luckily, the answers are right at your fingertips when you pick up these helpful books about educational technology. Expand your horizons and learn more about emerging tech by adding the following guides to your list of must-reads.
1. “The Classroom Teacher’s Technology Survival Guide” — Doug Johnson
If it’s not broken, don’t fix it, right? While this approach may work in regard to curriculum, it simply isn’t best when considering education technology. Upgrade time-tested educational strategies with the help of edtech. This book includes practical tips to help you seamlessly integrate these new devices. The author also provides advice on managing disruptive technologies so you can cultivate a more productive learning environment.
2. “Integrating Technology in the Classroom: Tools to Meet the Need of Every Student” — Boni Hamilton
Discover tech tools and projects that resonate with your students and your teaching style in “Integrating Technology in the Classroom.” Boni Hamilton’s comprehensive guide is brimming with new and applicable ways to introduce new methods and models, regardless of classroom context or personal skill level. Take inspiration from hundreds of included tools and activities that support collaborative, student-centered learning. Filter ideas by difficulty and complexity to build confidence and skill in yourself and your students.
3. “Out of Our Minds: The Power of Being Creative” — Ken Robinson
If you’re familiar with Ken Robinson’s popular TED talk, “Do Schools Kill Creativity,” you’ll understand why this book is a must-read. Join Robinson in exploring how the education system came to undervalue creativity in modern schools. Regardless of how you view tech in education, this book will completely change your mindset — in the broadest sense. More importantly, it will give you the solution to unlocking your students’ creative power.
4. “Empowering Students With Technology” — Alan November
How do computers, smartphones and other devices enhance students’ critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills? How might it level the playing field for disadvantaged and disabled learners? Alan November answers these and other similar questions in his book, “Empowering Students With Technology.” He also provides resources, practical lesson ideas, activity samples and other helpful suggestions for integrating online learning in the classroom.
5. “Code Breaker: Increase Creativity, Remix Assessment and Develop a Class of Coder Ninjas” — Brian Aspinall
Don’t know a thing about coding? Pick up a copy of this handy guide on computational thinking. This book shows you how to turn syllabus expectations into skills students can use to flex their problem-solving muscles. It also explains how to use code for all grade levels, regardless of your personal level of expertise. According to the author, all teachers can use the included concepts to improve classroom instruction and their teaching approach.
6. “50 Things You Can Do With Google Classroom” — Libbie Miller and Alice Keeler
Many teachers are using Google Classroom to add virtual teaching to their repertoire. However, there are more ways to use the app than most instructors realize. Make the most of this valuable, free tool with “50 Things You Can Do With Google Classroom.” This book encourages collaboration and helps teachers organize assignments, create lessons and share announcements all in one place. Once you know how to use the app, you can put the authors’ practical ideas to good use and streamline your classroom.
7. “Born Digital: How Kids Grow Up in a Digital Age” — John Palfrey and Urs Gasser
Sixty-five percent of parents deem it acceptable to give their kids their own tablets before the age of 12. Thus, the younger generation — and all those who come after them — will grow up in a digital world. Take a psychological approach to technology in the classroom by learning about how these devices impact students. This book also explores topics like privacy concerns and ethics so you can make decisions based on the big picture.
Never Stop Learning
Technology is an ever-changing world of exploration and innovation. As such, you’ll have to keep up with trending strategies and methods to effectively integrate edtech into your classroom. Keep learning and growing by continuously adding books about educational technology to your shelf. The more you read, the better prepared you and your students will be to take on the world and become leaders in educational technology.
