We can all agree that technology is here to stay. And while sometimes technology gets a bad rap, it can be a significant learning tool. At The Franciscan School, the faculty and staff have been intentional in considering the goals for using technology and whether it provides a functional improvement to a learning task. “Incorporating technology allows teachers to easily differentiate instruction and personalize learning,” shares Principal Dawn Smith. “We are developing 21st century learners where the skills of critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity will be integral parts of their learning.”

For the last two years, TFS has been blessed with a highly skilled and experienced Instructional Technology Coordinator, Kathleen Loeschorn. She has spent 21 years in education and 5 years in a corporate environment, all of which have equipped her to teach technology in the classroom. She believes that by teaching technology skills early on, schools help prepare students for future academic success. At TFS, technology is leveraged across all curriculums and grades.

Loeschorn has elevated the technology program at TFS to focus on many core goals, including:

-Digital Literacy. Teach basic digital literacy skills such as using a keyboard and mouse, navigating interfaces, and understanding digital etiquette (netiquette).

- Introduction to Coding Concepts: Introduce coding concepts through fun activities and games. Platforms like Scratch or Blockly offer visual programming languages designed for kids.

- STEM Education: Incorporate technology into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Encourage hands-on experimentation with tools like robotics kits or simple coding projects. 

- Internet Safety: Teach students about internet safety, including how to identify and avoid online dangers such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and scams.

- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Use technology to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Activities like puzzle-solving games or educational apps can help develop these skills. 

- Collaboration and Communication: Foster collaboration and communication skills through projects that involve teamwork and interaction with peers using digital tools like Google Docs or educational forums.

- Basic Hardware Knowledge: Teach students about basic hardware components like computers, tablets, and peripherals. They can learn how to handle devices safely and understand their functions. This is introduced in kindergarten and reinforced each year. Students start by learning common technology devices and move on to parts of the computer. The importance of safely handling technology devices and properly caring for them is discussed yearly.

- Digital Citizenship: Promote responsible digital citizenship by discussing topics such as online privacy, copyright laws, and respecting others' digital property. This is taught in all grades, and students are taught about online safety, privacy, and security best practices for use with Google for Education tools as well as in their private lives.

- Adaptation to New Technologies: Encourage students to adapt to new technologies by exposing them to various devices and software applications. This helps them become comfortable with learning and using new tools as technology evolves.  

There are many advantages to using technology in the classroom, such as the ability for teachers to provide instant feedback to students through online quizzes, polls, and interactive activities. Tools like Google Drive enable students to collaborate on projects, share ideas, and receive feedback from peers and teachers. Technology also allows for personalized learning, giving teachers the opportunity to tailor individual students’ needs. Adaptive learning platforms can adjust the difficulty level of content based on students’ performance, ensuring they are appropriately challenged.

Loeschorn shares that technology in TFS classrooms is used in various ways. For example, for grades 2-8, each student has a Chromebook, and kindergarten and 1st grade students use a shared Chromebook cart. iPads are used in Kindergarten and 1st grade to allow students to practice foundational skills. Apps designed for this age group often incorporate playful activities that promote learning. The technology lab has two 3D printers, which allow students to design and print personalized projects. Dash and Dot robots are programmable robots designed to teach coding and robotics concepts. Students can interact directly with them, programming them to perform various tasks and solve challenges. Programs like Blockly or Wonder make coding accessible to young learners.

Students are introduced to G Suite applications, such as Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive. They are taught how to create, edit, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Starting in 5th grade, students are taught email etiquette by using Gmail. They learn how to compose emails, organize their inboxes, and practice email etiquette.

Principal Smith reminds us that “It is important to use technology as a means of enhancing and extending education, not as its own end. A teacher's role as a guide remains essential, using a combination of digital and physical resources in the most effective way.” Together with our teachers and staff, we remain dedicated to education, faith, and service.