The 10 Best International Schools in Dubai 2018

Educator’s Perspective
TECHNOLOGY
IN SCHOOLS
Jason Milner is an Australian
Vice-Principal, currently working
as a Head of Middle School at
Nibras International School. He
has also assumed the responsibilities
of the Director of Educational
Technology, having previously
worked in this role at other
International Schools in the UAE.
He has a very limited understanding
of hardware and technical aspects of
servers and wiring, having been
trained as a Physical Education and
Mathematics teacher in Australia.
However, he sees himself as a
‘driving instructor’ as opposed to a
‘mechanic’, and is passionate about
expanding pedagogical toolkits in
the interests of student-centered
learning.
An ‘agent for change’, he believes in
preparing students for the lives that
they will live.
“ sing devices in the classroom is a distraction to
Ulearning!”
“The technology opens up collaborative opportunities for my
students.”
“Computers in classrooms prevent students from developing
their interpersonal skills.”
“Access to the internet provides access to learning beyond the
walls of the classroom.”
We’ve all, no doubt, come across a myriad of arguments, both
for and against, regarding the use of technology for learning,
particularly in a school environment. As a school leader, and
continuing classroom practitioner, I have found myself in many
conversations with staff, and parents, regarding whether
technology is the bane of education, or its salvation, enabling
enhanced learning. I will state at the outset that I am most
definitely in favor of the potential benefits of using new
technologies in the classroom. I say “new technologies” as all
tools for learning are examples of technology i.e. pen and paper
vs. chalk and slate etc.
I emphasize that using technology in the classroom is just
another tool in a teacher’s toolkit. I believe in balance - and
selecting the right tool for the job. There is a place for pen and
paper, and there is a place for digital tools. The consideration as
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December | 2018