As I stated in my previous and introductory post about how important is aligning technology with Teaching and Learning objectives, technology has become an integral part of our lives, and its impact on education is undeniable. When used effectively, technology can be a powerful tool to enhance student engagement and create more interactive and dynamic learning experiences.  

Numerous studies have explored the relationship between technology and student engagement, with findings consistently indicating a positive correlation. Research suggests that technology can stimulate students’ minds and encourage active participation in the learning process and I have witnessed this myself during the last 12 years.  

Technology, as this research discovered, can enhance student engagement in various dimensions:

• Cognitive Engagement: Interactive simulations, virtual reality experiences, and educational games can provide immersive and engaging learning environments that promote critical thinking, problem solving, and deeper understanding of concepts.  A clear example of this could be Minecraft Education Edition. This educational version of the popular game allows students to build and explore virtual worlds while learning about various subjects, such as history, science, and maths. The game encourages problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity, promoting deeper cognitive engagement.
• Behavioural Engagement: Technology can facilitate active learning by providing opportunities for students to participate in discussions, collaborate on projects, and engage in hands-on activities. Online platforms and tools enable students to contribute to class discussions, share ideas, and receive immediate feedback, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning.  Google Classroom is a good example of this.
• Emotional Engagement: Technology can create a more stimulating and enjoyable learning experience, leading to increased motivation and interest in the subject matter.  Online platforms and tools enable students to contribute to class discussions, share ideas, and receive immediate feedback, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning.  Some of these platforms could be ClassPoint AI (if you use PowerPoint as it does not work on Google Slides), Whiteboard.fi, Nearpod and more focus on behaviour and rewards, ClassCharts. 

A 2023 survey by EdWeek found that 76% of students believe technology makes learning more engaging. This highlights the potential of technology to transform traditional classrooms into dynamic and interactive learning spaces. In addition to the dimensions mentioned above, technology has been shown to have several other positive effects on education, making learning more interactive and engaging.  

Case Studies of Schools Using Technology to Enhance Student Engagement

Several schools have successfully implemented technology to boost student engagement. One notable example is the use of Google Classroom, a platform that allows teachers to create classes, distribute assignments, provide feedback, and track student progress in one central location. This tool has been praised for its ability to enhance communication and collaboration between teachers and students, as well as its potential to personalise learning experiences.  

Another example is the use of game based learning platforms like Kahoot! And Classcraft (sadly now closed). These platforms incorporate game mechanics and elements of competition to motivate students and make learning more enjoyable. Studies have shown that gamified learning can improve student engagement, knowledge retention, and overall academic performance.  

A case study exploring student engagement with technology as measured by the ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction) and SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) models found that as lessons were moved to higher levels of SAMR (modification and redefinition levels), student engagement and motivation were positively impacted along the ARCS model. This suggests that technology can be particularly effective in enhancing student engagement when used to transform learning experiences rather than simply substituting traditional methods.  

Different Types of Technology for Enhancing Student Engagement

A wide range of technologies can be employed to enhance student engagement. Some of the most effective tools include:  

• Interactive Whiteboards: providing a dynamic and engaging platform for teachers to present information, conduct interactive activities, and encourage student participation, which increases student interaction, visual learning, and collaborative activities.  Where physical interactive whiteboards like SMART Board, Promethean ActivPanel or IIyama ProLite offer a great potential, If you are in a 1:1 programme with devices, I recommend to have a look at Whiteboard.fi
• Educational Apps: offering a vast library of interactive learning resources, games, and simulations that can cater to diverse learning styles and subject areas for personalised learning, gamified learning, and immediate feedback.  A clear example is Blooket, Khan Academy or Quizlet.
• Virtual Reality (VR): creating immersive learning environments that transport students to different places and times, allowing them to experience concepts and events in a more engaging and realistic way for experiential learning, enhanced understanding, and increased engagement.  Nearpod VR and Google Arts & Culture are great examples of this.
• Virtual Manipulatives: offering digital tools that allow students to manipulate objects and concepts in a virtual environment for hands-on learning, visual representation of abstract concepts, and increased interactivity.  GeoGebra, PhET Interactive Simulations are a must for this purpose.
• Online Simulations: providing interactive programs that simulate real world scenarios and allow students to explore different outcomes for problem solving skills, critical thinking, and collaborative learning.  SimCityEDU and Minecraft: Education Edition could give you a massive push with your students.

The Importance of Teacher Training and Professional Development

The effective integration of these proposed technologies in the classroom hinges on the skills and knowledge of teachers. Providing ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers is crucial to ensure they can confidently and effectively use technology to enhance student engagement. This can include workshops, online courses, and peer to peer mentoring programs focusing on:  

• Pedagogical strategies for integrating technology  
• Selecting and using appropriate technology tools  
• Creating engaging and interactive learning experiences  
• Addressing digital equity and access issues  
• Promoting digital citizenship and online safety  

By investing in teacher training and professional development, schools can empower educators to leverage technology effectively and create a more engaging and enriching learning environment for all students.  

In case you are interested, contact me to discuss how I can support your teachers if you are a school leader or yourself if you are a teacher that wants to receive EdTech coaching or training and help you create a more engaging and dynamic learning environment for your students.

Role of Teachers in Using Technology to Enhance Student Engagement

While technology plays a great role to enhance student engagement, how teachers approach their students is the most impactful way of improving students’ engagement. But, in today’s learning pace, it is difficult to manage all bureaucracy and “secondary” tasks to have more time to spend on teaching. A possible clue is: Automate Tasks! Utilise technology to automate tasks such as uploading lessons, grading online assessments, and communicating with parents. This can free up time for teachers to focus on providing individualised support and creating more engaging learning experiences.  In my previous post about 5 AI Tools Revolutionising Teacher Workflows I gave you some ideas to improve in this area.

Drawbacks of Using Technology to Enhance Student Engagement

While technology offers numerous benefits for student engagement, it is important to be aware of potential drawbacks such as:

• Distractions: The presence of technology in the classroom can be a source of distraction for students, diverting their attention from learning tasks. In today’s classrooms, integrating technology brings both promise and peril. While digital devices open doors to new and innovative learning opportunities, they can also be a distraction if not managed effectively. To mitigate this, teachers can establish clear guidelines for technology use, utilise classroom management tools, and provide engaging activities that capture students’ attention.  IMTLazarus provides a powerful tool to control and monitor students’ devices.
• Cost and Access: The cost of technology and access to devices and reliable internet connectivity can be a barrier for some schools and students.  
• Health Concerns: Prolonged screen time can have negative health consequences, such as eye strain, sleep disturbances, and a sedentary lifestyle. I myself bought or added the blue light glasses with my kids and I myself use a blue light filter in my own glasses to attack the impact of screen light in the eyes.
• Over Reliance on Technology: There is a risk of over reliance on technology, potentially neglecting traditional teaching methods and critical thinking skills.  For me, this is a red line, I saw more than expected times teachers relying on Kahoots! to “spend” lesson time, but with no contrasted learning progress.
• Equity and Access: While technology can be a powerful tool for promoting equity and access in education, it can also exacerbate existing disparities if access to devices and internet connectivity is not equitable.  

Technology has the potential to revolutionise education by creating more engaging and effective learning experiences for students. By carefully considering the learning objectives, selecting appropriate tools, and integrating technology effectively into the curriculum, educators can harness its power to enhance student engagement, foster collaboration, and promote deeper understanding. However, being mindful of potential drawbacks and ensuring that technology is used responsibly and ethically to maximise its benefits for all students is crucial.  

A balanced approach to technology integration is essential. While technology can enhance learning in many ways, it should complement, not replace, effective teaching practices.

What are your experiences, outcomes and challenges on using technology to enhance student engagement?