How technology can support teacher development

Most people recognise that the needs of learners are constantly evolving, and that teachers need to adapt to provide high-quality learning experiences, whether they’re working in primary schools, secondary schools, or higher education. This is particularly apparent when it comes to the technological advancements that have transformed teaching practices – the way teachers deliver and manage education – and the education system more broadly.

But what about the teachers themselves? 

The answer is that it’s not just pupils and students who benefit from the use of technology – the integration of educational technology in teacher development programmes has helped boost teaching practice, student engagement, and learning outcomes for everyone. And in a world where technology and education are increasingly intertwined, it is essential that teachers embrace change and continuously develop their technological skills if they aim to remain effective educators and facilitators of the learning process.

Technologies that support teacher development

Examples of technologies that are helping teachers to develop new skills and knowledge include:

• Digital learning tools. Educators have access to a wide array of digital learning tools – and the number of these resources in education technology (EdTech) is growing quickly. Tools include apps, PowerPoint multimedia presentations, and electronic learning platforms that are all focused specifically on developing teacher expertise and supporting teaching practice. Online learning platforms, for example, can host webinars and courses that allow teachers to expand their knowledge, collaborate with other educators, and gain insights into new, innovative teaching practices.
• Digital resources. Teachers also have access to a wealth of digital educational resources, such as e-books and educational research papers, which can help them keep up with the latest pedagogical approaches in the field.
• Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR and AR are increasingly popular tools for learners, but they can also support teachers’ own development. For example, school teachers can immerse themselves in classroom simulations to build their confidence before teaching new materials or subjects in real, in-person settings. This allows them to get valuable practice in areas such as problem-solving and handling educational interventions even while in pre-service training.
• Social media and professional learning communities. There are several online environments and forums where teachers can engage with their peers, discussing teaching pedagogy, sharing resources, and seeking advice. These platforms provide a means for continuous learning and networking, and can even include a variety of tools to help teachers assess their skill levels – through online quizzes, for example – and level-up their knowledge.

The benefits of using technology to support teacher development

Technology offers a number of advantages in terms of teacher professional development.

For example, it supports:

• Improved teaching practices. The technological tools available to educators help develop and support innovative teaching methods. And often, the resources teachers use digitally are quicker to disseminate and easier to access, so teachers can access the very latest research – in areas, for example, such as catering to different learning styles – and enhance their teaching practice on a regular basis.
• Enhanced student learning. By enabling teachers to improve their own teaching practice, technology enhances the learning experience for students and pupils, too. Learners receive more engaging and interactive learning experiences, which in turn boosts their understanding and retention of the material.
• Increased opportunities for professional development. Technology has expanded access to continued professional development. With teachers now able to engage in activities like online courses and webinars, professional development becomes easier and more inclusive, too.
• Efficient use of time. The other benefits of technology in teacher education – the tools that directly support teaching, learning, and lesson plans – can streamline administrative tasks, which in turn allows teachers to focus more of their time on development. With many educators already stretched in terms of workloads, this is an invaluable benefit, and has a knock-on, positive impact for learners.
• Better communication. Technology tools have connected educators in unprecedented new ways, enabling and enhancing collaboration between teachers, their peers, and school leaders and stakeholders. This has also helped foster a new sense of community among educators – across schools, education systems, regions, and even borders – and ensures that teachers are not isolated in their professional development.

Challenges in using technology to support teacher development

Technology is a powerful tool for teachers’ development, but it also presents challenges that often need to be overcome before educators can truly benefit from implementing digital resources.

These include:

• Integration hurdles. One major challenge for educators is the integration of technology into their learning environments. While the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a significant step towards classroom technology and technological integration into existing systems, some education systems – and educators – are resistant to change, or lack the necessary skills to effectively implement technology into their development plans. 
• Resource inequality. Not all schools or teachers have access to the same technological resources, and disparities in funding and infrastructure can create inequality in teacher development opportunities.
• Constant technological changes. The fast pace of change in technology can be overwhelming for some teachers, so keeping up with new digital tools and technologies – and incorporating them effectively into their development journey – can be challenging.

The future of technology and teacher development

As technology use and applications continue to evolve, so too will its impact on teacher development. For example, advancements in personalised digital experiences mean that educators will be able to better tailor their professional development plans to their own unique needs and preferences, and become more effective teachers as a result.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another resource that could help with teacher training – for instance, generative AI tools could help teachers identify new areas for development and learning – and the global collaboration enabled by digital communication technologies can help educators to continue connecting with other teachers worldwide, sharing international best practices and resources, without concern for differences in language. For example, an English speaker in New York or London can easily collaborate with a Chinese speaker in China, using digital translation tools and online communication apps to engage with one another.

Build technology into your development journey 

Embrace the role of education technologist by studying the 100% online MA Education Technology at Keele University. This flexible, part-time programme has been designed to build the skills and knowledge of teachers, lecturers, administrators, managers, e-learning developers, and trainers, and is suitable for anyone with a keen interest in education and technology integration in learning strategies.

You’ll gain the skills and expertise to apply tech innovations to full effect across a diverse range of educational settings and for a diverse range of purposes. You will also explore how new technologies can unlock a new dimension of teaching and learning, revolutionising your professional practice and addressing critical issues in wider global education.

Key areas of study include:

• Rethinking teaching and learning with digital technologies.
• Global education issues.
• Online and blended learning design.
• Educational technologies in practice.
• Education, employment, and professional identity.