In the evolving landscape of higher education, the role of technology in classrooms has become increasingly crucial. As universities strive to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for a tech-driven world, the question of how to effectively standardize classroom technology has come to the forefront. A recent discussion on EDTech shed light on the challenges and strategies involved in creating a cohesive technological environment across campus.
The Case for Standardization
One of the primary drivers for standardization is the need for consistency and ease of use. Ernie Bailey of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS) highlighted this point, sharing his institution’s experience: “We came up with a package that meets all of those needs, and we’ve been rolling that out for a few years now… minimal training for the faculty. ‘Cause if they’ve been in one room, they all work the same. They all look just the same.”
This approach addresses a common pain point for both faculty and students. When instructors move between classrooms, they shouldn’t have to worry about learning new systems or troubleshooting unfamiliar equipment. Similarly, students benefit from a consistent experience, allowing them to focus on the content rather than the technology.
Simplicity Over Bells and Whistles
A recurring theme in the discussion was the importance of prioritizing simplicity and reliability over cutting-edge features. Bailey emphasized this perspective, stating, “Our job in education is to get the students educated… We want them thinking about the education and our job is to be invisible and to enhance the teaching.”
This sentiment was echoed by Rob Rasberry of Drexel University, who noted, “Keep it simple. Faculty like it simple… The trend has been not innovation, just have it work.” This approach ensures that technology serves as a tool for education rather than becoming a distraction or obstacle.
The Standardization Process
While the benefits of standardization are clear, the process of implementing it can vary between institutions. Scott Tiner from Bates College described their approach: “We don’t have a set standard in the sense of there’s a written document, which tells you every model of whatever that will be in a room, but our standard rooms are the same. They have the same set of equipment.”
This flexible approach to standardization allows for some adaptability in back-end equipment while maintaining a consistent user experience. Tiner explained that they ensure any changes in equipment are easily swappable and familiar to support staff.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite the benefits, implementing standardized technology is not without its challenges. One significant hurdle is getting buy-in from faculty, particularly when it comes to new technologies like interactive whiteboards. Erin Maher-Moran from Johns Hopkins University noted, “We haven’t been able to get faculty really to buy in to the interactive boards.”
Michael Gunderson from Highland Community College shared a cautionary tale about the importance of faculty engagement: “We just installed two interactive displays in brand new classrooms… Our product champion for those devices left us before the project was completed. So now I’ve got a floor full of faculty going, ‘What is this and why is it here? And what are we going to do with it?'”
This experience underscores the need for ongoing communication with faculty and the importance of having champions within the teaching staff to promote and guide the use of new technologies.
The Role of Feedback
To navigate these challenges and ensure that standardization efforts meet the needs of both faculty and students, gathering and acting on feedback is crucial. Rasberry emphasized this point: “Always get feedback. Um, you don’t necessarily have to recognize it. Some of it is good. Some of it is bad, but always get feedback.”
He shared an experience where the installation of interactive displays in older classrooms led to pushback from faculty who preferred traditional chalkboards. This situation highlighted the importance of thorough consultation before making significant changes to classroom technology.
Balancing Innovation and Practicality
While the focus on simplicity and reliability is paramount, there’s still a place for innovation in classroom technology. The key is finding the right balance and ensuring that any new technology aligns with educational goals. As Bailey put it, “There are times and places for the wow, for all the fancy stuff, but it’s not in the classroom when there’s a limited amount of time for the teaching.”
Tiner added an interesting perspective on the need for technology to relate to both faculty and students: “It doesn’t have to be innovative to relate, but it has to have, it has to be able to get the students to buy into it.” This suggests that the most effective classroom technology is that which seamlessly integrates into the learning process, regardless of how cutting-edge it may be.
The Ultimate Goal: Enhancing Education
Throughout the discussion, one theme remained constant: the primary purpose of classroom technology is to enhance the educational experience. As Bailey eloquently stated, “When Dr. Smith leaves her office to come and give a lecture, she’s thinking about what she’s teaching or anything new. She’s not wondering which button she’s supposed to push… We want them thinking about the education and our job is to be invisible and to enhance the teaching.”
Gunderson reinforced this idea with an anecdote about faculty feedback: “I had an unsolicited visit by an instructor… He walked into my office one day and he says, ‘Mike, you know what I like about you? Your stuff just works.'” This simple statement encapsulates the true measure of success for classroom technology standardization.
As universities continue to navigate the complex landscape of educational technology, the focus on standardization, simplicity, and reliability will likely remain key priorities. By creating consistent, user-friendly environments that prioritize the needs of both faculty and students, institutions can ensure that technology truly serves its purpose: enhancing the quality of education and preparing students for the challenges of the future.
