Technology Standards

The Office of Educational Technology (OET) at the U.S. Department of Education published a report titled "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations". This report explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, aiming to guide educators and policymakers in harnessing its benefits while mitigating potential risks. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

AI in Education: The Potential

• Personalized Learning: AI can personalize the learning experience by tailoring instruction, content, and pace to individual student needs and learning styles.
• Automated Tasks: AI can automate routine tasks like grading, providing feedback on student work, and offering basic skill practice, freeing up teachers' time for more complex and personalized interactions with students.
• Data-Driven Insights: AI can analyze student data to identify areas of strength and weakness, allowing educators to intervene and provide targeted support.
• Immersive Learning: AI can power simulations and virtual reality experiences that can create engaging and interactive learning environments.

Considerations and Recommendations

The report acknowledges that alongside the potential benefits, there are also challenges and risks to consider when implementing AI in education. Here are some key areas of focus:

• Human-in-the-Loop: The report emphasizes the importance of keeping teachers central to the learning process. AI should be seen as a tool to support educators, not replace them.
• Equity and Fairness: AI algorithms must be designed and used fairly to avoid perpetuating biases or widening educational disparities.
• Data Privacy and Security: Student data privacy and security are paramount. Robust safeguards are essential to ensure data is collected, used, and stored responsibly.
• Transparency and Explainability: AI systems used in education should be transparent and explainable so educators and students understand how they work and why they make certain recommendations.

Overall, the OET report advocates for a thoughtful and measured approach to using AI in education. It highlights the potential for AI to personalize learning, automate tasks, and provide valuable insights, while urging caution and responsible implementation to address potential risks and biases.

Here are some additional resources you might find helpful:

• The full report: https://tech.ed.gov/ai-future-of-teaching-and-learning/
• OET's website on AI in education: https://tech.ed.gov/ai-future-of-teaching-and-learning/

Implemented in September 2024, the New York State Computer Science and Digital Fluency Learning Standards outline what every student in grades K-12 should learn about technology.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

• Five Core Concepts: The standards are organized into five main concepts:
  • Impacts of Computing: How technology has shaped society and continues to evolve.
  • Computational Thinking: Problem-solving strategies used in computer science.
  • Networks and Systems Design: Understanding how computer networks and systems function.
  • Cybersecurity: Practices for protecting information and systems online.
  • Digital Literacy: Evaluating and using digital information responsibly.
• Grade-Leveled Approach:  The standards are divided into grade bands (K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-8, and 9-12). Students are expected to master the concepts by the end of their respective grade band.
• Flexibility for Educators:  The standards can be taught as standalone courses or integrated into other subjects, allowing schools to tailor the curriculum to their needs.
• Focus on Equity:  The development process prioritized ensuring all students have access to engaging in computer science and digital fluency education.

Here are some resources where you can learn more:

• NYS Computer Science and Digital Fluency Learning Standards: https://www.nysed.gov/curriculum-instruction/computer-science-and-digital-fluency-learning-standards
• CS & Digital Fluency Standards Resources: https://www.nysed.gov/curriculum-instruction/computer-science-and-digital-fluency-learning-standards (This website includes information about professional development opportunities for teachers)

The Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum is designed to align with several recognized national standards frameworks, including:

• Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS): These standards outline what students should know and be able to do in science and engineering. PLTW's engineering programs are specifically designed to address these standards.
• Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM): These standards define what students should learn in mathematics. Many PLTW courses integrate math concepts into their project-based learning activities.
• Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts (CCSS ELA): These standards define what students should learn in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. PLTW courses encourage communication and collaboration skills that align with these standards.
• Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) Standards: These standards define the computational thinking skills students should develop. PLTW's computer science pathway specifically aligns with these standards.
• International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) Standards for Technological Literacy: These standards define the knowledge and skills students should develop in technological literacy. PLTW's engineering programs are designed to address these ITEEA standards.

Here's what PLTW offers instead of its own standards:

• PLTW Curriculum Frameworks: These frameworks outline the learning objectives, topics, and activities covered in each PLTW course. They ensure consistency and quality across their curriculum.
• Alignment with National Standards: PLTW provides resources that demonstrate how their curriculum aligns with various national standards frameworks. This helps educators understand how PLTW courses contribute to students' overall academic development.

Here are some resources where you can learn more about how PLTW aligns with national standards:

• See How PLTW Aligns and Connects to Standards: https://www.pltw.org/plan-for-pltw/standards-alignment
• PLTW Engineering Curriculum Framework: https://www.pltw.org/ (This is an example; frameworks exist for each PLTW program)

The current ISTE Standards are still the 2023 version. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects you can expect:

• Focus on Learners: These standards prioritize using technology to empower students and enhance their learning. They emphasize creating engaging and effective learning experiences that develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills for all students.
• Multiple Standards for Different Roles: The ISTE Standards encompass different roles in education, each with its own set of standards. These include:
  • Students: Standards focus on areas like being an Empowered Learner, a Digital Citizen, a Knowledge Constructor, and a Creative Communicator.
  • Educators: Standards address educators as Learners, Leaders, Facilitators, and Designers who effectively integrate technology into their teaching.
  • Administrators: Their standards focus on areas like being Visionary Leaders, System Administrators, and Curriculum Developers who support technology use in schools.
  • Coaches: ISTE Standards outline their role as Learners, Leaders, and Collaborators who guide educators in effectively using technology.

Benefits of Using ISTE Standards:

• Improved student learning outcomes through engaging and effective technology integration.
• Professional development roadmap for educators to enhance their tech-related skills.
• Emphasis on equity and ensuring all students have access to technology and the opportunity to develop digital fluency.

Here are some resources where you can learn more about the ISTE Standards:

• ISTE Standards website: https://iste.org/standards/students
• ISTE Standards for Students (example): https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTEdTech/Commission-for-Educational-Technology/Initiatives/Digital-Learning-Standards (This website uses the 2023 ISTE Standards for Students as a reference)