Just
over two-thirds of K-3 teachers reported that on at least one occasion they’d
refrained from assigning homework because they didn’t think all their students
had access to the technology or digital media needed to complete the work. That
percentage was even higher for schools serving a greater number of low-income
students.
Based
on the survey and in-person conversations with parents, the foundation suggested
five strategies for how instructors can help bridge the school/home “device gap”:
1. Inform
parents about how their children are using technology and which digital media are
being used in the classroom.
2. Recommend
specific programs and apps students can use at home to complement what’s being
used at school. Since poor Internet service and data limits are among the most
common technology hurdles at home, consider programs that don’t require Wi-Fi
or cell service to run after being downloaded.
3. Host
a parent-teacher learning exchange in your school or across your district to
explain how appropriate content is chosen. While teachers aren’t expected to
have every answer on devices and apps, the survey and discussions indicated parents
do view them as trusted partners for advice on technology use.
4. Rather
than focusing solely on scary messages about the potential harmful effects of
device use on young children, take a balanced approach that promotes how to “learn
and live well” in a world where technology and connectedness are ever more ubiquitous.
5. Connect
parents to their local library as a source for increasing their access to
technology and further mentoring on appropriate use for young children.
