Tech-savviness must for next-generation teachers

Sarwat Nasir

Teachers need to become more techsavvy in order to effectively teach children of the generation Alpha, a Dubai school principal has said.

Brendon Fulton, the principal of the Dubai British School, believes “good schools have already invested heavily” in ensuring teachers are ready to teach Alphas, however, there are other technologies that schools should also focus on.

Schools may have a general idea on which skills Alphas may need to prepare them for the workforce, however, teachers also need to be ready.

“Teachers certainly need to become more tech-savvy, especially

Schools generally should be looking to virtual and augmented reality technologies to help students develop experiential, rather than theory-based understanding.” Brendon Fulton, principal, Dubai British School

on the use of mobile technologies. Schools generally should be looking to virtual and augmented reality technologies to help students develop experiential, rather than theory-based understanding,” Fulton said.

Technology is a friend and should not be met with hesitation or distrust. One area in which teachers need improvement is data interpretation, management and manipulation.” Karan Deep, innovation manager, GEMS Education

“One key factor will be on wellbeing, and teachers will certainly need to develop skills in ensuring that this remains a focus of student’s development. The continued proliferation of technology will undoubtedly put social skills at risk, and so schools and teachers should be strategically planning opportunities to develop social skills and shine a spotlight on the emotional and physical well-being of students in their care.”

Karan Deep, the innovation manager at GEMS Education, said teachers need to trust technology.

“UAE is home to over 200 nationalities making up approximately 90 percent of its population. The rate of second or third generation students in the classrooms is increasing and it is important for teachers to be able to spread and inspire collaboration, communication and tolerance,” he said.

“Teachers are mentors and guides to the learning and development of any student. In this regard, most teachers are already equipped to teach Generation Alpha students. They would, however, need to be aware and constantly adapt to the changing social norms and student expectations catalysed by lifestyle changes, information access and technology progress and infiltration.

“Technology is a friend and should not be met with hesitation or distrust. One area in which teachers need improvement is data interpretation, management and manipulation. When students work online, teachers receive data about student performance, which can then inform teachers of potential follow-up instruction.”

sarwat@khaleejtimes.com