It can be difficult to predict the staying power of pandemic-related changes. But March of 2020 may well prove to be a turning point that permanently altered the way technology is used in teaching and learning. Educators across districts, grade levels, and subjects expanded their use of educational technology as they adapted to school shutdowns caused by the coronavirus. Pressure mounted as some districts achieved 1:1 computing—providing a device for every student—and others struggled to reach students who may share devices among family members or face unreliable internet connectivity. Educators gained familiarity with a wide range of digital instructional products and some K-12 officials started thinking creatively about how digital tools might shape longer-term strategies to offer remote and hybrid instruction once the pandemic ends.
In January and February of 2022, the EdWeek Research Center surveyed educators to learn more about the opportunities and tensions that arise as new technologies are incorporated into daily instruction. This report details findings from the survey, which also informed in-depth journalism for Education Week’s Technology Counts 2022 report.
