Suppose there’s one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, other than the importance of listening to medical professionals and scientists when we’re told to wear PPE. In that case, it’s that education technology is an integral part of education. Without it, the online learning necessary to continue education with schools closing would not be possible. 

The use of education technology would also not be possible without valuable education technology coaches, who train educators to properly use education tech to its fullest. Education technology coaches play an essential role in helping districts meet the challenges of online learning.

We will discuss the importance of education technology coaches and help educators understand a technologically fueled education environment better.

Education Technology Coaches Understand the Tech Skills of Learners and Educators

For a few years now, education technology coaches have worked closely with educators, helping them use tech to enhance their lessons and classrooms. They have become more familiar with the technological capabilities of learners and educators than most people. 

Consequently, this makes them one of the most accurate sources of information regarding what should be in place to properly facilitate online learning for both learners and educators. Coaches have also been able to build relationships with learners during the school years. 

Their presence as leaders in districts’ remote learning strategies can help educators feel more support when facing new challenges. It can also help alleviate some stress by creating a stronger sense of continuity in the abrupt transition from in-school to online learning. 

Use Tools and Apps Appropriately

There are lots of resources and tools to supplement and support online learning. However, finding the right tool from the thousands of available resources is often a confusing and overwhelming undertaking for many educators.

This is especially true for educators who don’t have much experience with online teaching and education technology. Leveraging their extensive experience assisting educators in moving through the many relevant training practices, education technology coaches can help find education technology tools and resources appropriate for different contexts and educators.

Education Technology Coaches Know District Goals

Since they have so much experience aiding learners and educators with the use of tech in learning and teaching and understanding the goals for specific districts, education technology coaches can uniquely support communities with the implementation of at-home, online learning.

Because education technology coaches contact educators directly, they are strong advocates for educators’ specific needs, ensuring that only the most relevant and appropriate support and resources for online learning are delivered. 

Conclusion

Education technology coaches are playing a crucial role in this uncertain time. Thanks to their familiarity with learners and educators’ tech skills and district goals, they can identify which education technology tools are best for each situation – something incredibly valuable in a time like this.