Enhancing Inclusivity in Education: Insights from SMART Technologies on Classroom Technology

Digital Learning Today: Where Productivity Meets Innovation in the Classroom.

In this episode of the Digital Learning Today podcast, host Jeffrey Bradbury interviews Katie Novak from SMART Technologies about inclusivity in education. They discuss the conversations and trends at the ISTE conference, the importance of inclusivity in classroom technology, and the features of SMART's inclusive learning bundle. They also talk about the lifespan of SMART boards, the Lumio software, and the future of educational technology. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

• Can you give us an overview of SMART Technologies and your role at the company?
• Inclusive Learning Bundle
  • Can you share more insight into the Inclusive Learning Bundle and how it was developed to assist neurodiverse students?
  • Can you share more information about SMART’s sponsoring research from the University of Melbourne for neurodiverse students?
  
  
• Lumio
  • Can you explain how Lumio is designed to help teachers manage their workload and reduce burnout?
  • Why is Lumio a great resource not just for educators but for students as well?
  • What feedback have you received from educators using Lumio in the classroom, particularly in relation to its impact on student engagement and teacher satisfaction?
  • Lumio Features
    • Teacher Guide
    • Monster Quiz
    
    
  • As we approach the new school year, how do you see tools like Lumio shaping the future of classroom instruction?
  
  
• Accessibility in the Classroom
  • Why is accessibility important in the classroom and what are the most effective ways educators can integrate accessibility tools while overcoming potential challenges?
  
  
• Why use SMART Technologies?
  • How is SMART Technologies designing its products to simplify the purchasing process for education decision makers?
  • What specific features or strategies are employed to address education decision makers’ unique needs and challenges?
  
  

Conversation Takeaways

• Inclusivity is a key focus in educational technology, with teachers and administrators seeking tools that are simple to use, personalized, and give students voice and choice in their learning.
• SMART Technologies is committed to building solutions for all learners, including those with neurodivergent, mobility, visual, and auditory challenges.
• The inclusive learning bundle from SMART Technologies includes the SMART Board RX display, color-changing pens, tool explorer stamps, and the Lumio software, providing engagement, collaboration, and formative assessment options for students.
• SMART boards have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years, with update paths and support available to ensure longevity and sustainability.
• Lumio is a cloud-based lesson delivery and creation platform that offers game-based activities, formative assessment options, and collaborative workspaces for students.
• The future of educational technology includes a focus on inclusion, engagement, and the integration of AI to save teachers time and enhance learning experiences.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 02:18 Conversations at the ISTE Conference
• 03:52 Inclusivity in Classroom Technology
• 06:29 Smart Technologies' Inclusive Learning Bundle
• 10:20 Life Expectancy of SMART Technologies Hardware
• 12:37 Exploring Lumio: A Cloud-Based Lesson Delivery Platform
• 17:52 The Longevity of Smart Technologies' Interactive Displays
• 21:32 Closing Statements

About SMART Technologies

SMART Technologies is a pioneering force in the development of interactive technology solutions. Renowned for SMART Board® interactive displays and comprehensive software offerings, the company is dedicated to creating engaging and collaborative learning and working environments, creating connections that matter for users the world over since 1987. With a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, SMART Technologies continues to drive advancements in education and business technology worldwide.

Links of Interest

• Website: https://www.smarttech.com/en/education
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/SMARTTechnologies
• X: https://twitter.com/SMART_Tech
• Instagram: smarttech_social
• LinkedIn: SMART Technologies
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SMART_Tech

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