How do you ensure equitable digital access in your classroom?
Discrepancies in access to technology resources due to race, ethnicity, gender, or disabilities is known as digital inequality. It is important that schools and teachers ensure all students are equally engaging in active technological uses. In order to do this, it is first important to bring awareness to this digital divide and understand the causes. Females and people of color are less likely to earn degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) areas. For this reason, it is important for teachers to find programs that will promote interest and engagement for these students. Second, it is important to have accessibilities for devices in the classroom that include all learners, including those with disabilities. For example, technological resources can have built-in text to speech capabilities for those who are impaired. It is guaranteed by federal laws that any student with an IEP (Individualized Education Program) is provided technology that meets their specific needs if the regular devices do not. By being able to adapt to all learners’ needs, technology in the classroom can be fair and equitable.
References:
M.D. Roblyer, Joan E. Hughes. Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching. Transforming Learning Across Disciplines. 8th ed. NY, NY: Pearson Education, Inc. 2010
Equitable Digital Access - https://educatorpages.com/site/grouptwo/pages/equitable-digital-access
Closing the Digital Learning Gap - https://digitalpromise.org/2019/01/09/closing-the-digital-learning-gap/
How to Achieve Equity in the Classroom - https://resources.industrydive.com/how-to-achieve-equity-in-the-classroom