Technology for Learning: Advancing Equity or Maintaining the Status Quo?

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has created the conditions for renewed debate about the role of technology and learning, though the tensions around how, when, and for what purposes we use technology in the classroom has long been a source of debate. One perspective has viewed technology as a great equalizer, whereby technology expands access to knowledge and learning resources. Others have argued that technology alone will not change our systems, and in some cases will only deepen the nature of existing inequities. Still others have raised concerns about the extent to which our educational technology products center equity in their design. This session reflects, from various perspectives, the role of technology in learning as it relates to equity.   

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Sepehr Vakil, Northwestern University

Panelists

• Christopher Hoadley, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Vanessa Monterosa, New Schools New Ventures

• Nichole D. Pinkard, Northwestern University