By Anita Samuel
Let’s be real—some tech tools in education are more about flash than function. They look exciting, promise a lot, and might even get a few “oohs” and “aahs” at first. But when the dust settles, do they really help students learn better? Remember the metaverse????
The truth is that not all tools are created equal. Some are built with solid teaching strategies in mind. They support student thinking, keep learners engaged, and help build a sense of connection. Others are all style—fun to look at, but not much else.
Let’s take learning management systems (LMS) as an example. They’ve come a long way. Today’s LMS platforms let us do much more than just upload files. When used well, tools like discussion boards, scheduled content release, and quick quizzes can really guide students through a course. But that only happens when we plan thoughtfully. Just adding fancy graphics or animations doesn’t automatically make learning better.
One tool that does deliver? The interactive syllabus infographic. I’ve written about this before—it’s a one-page, visual version of your course overview. It includes audio clips, videos, QR codes, and helpful links. And students actually use it. Why? Because it’s clear, engaging, and designed to support them throughout the term. It's not just pretty—it’s practical.
Now let’s talk about tools that seem exciting but fall flat. Virtual reality (VR) is one. In the right setting—like medical or design training—it can be powerful. But in most general courses, it often ends up being more of a distraction. If students are spending more time figuring out how the tech works than learning the material, something’s off.
So, how do you tell the difference between helpful tech and just another digital gimmick? Ask yourself:
· Does it support active, hands-on learning?
· Is it easy for all students to access and use?
· Will it make things clearer or just more complicated?
· Does it help meet the goals of my course?
At the end of the day, technology isn’t magic. It’s just a tool. The real power lies in how we utilize it to connect with students and support their learning.
The best tools aren’t always the flashiest. Often, they’re the simplest tools that allow students to communicate with each other, receive feedback quickly, or revisit important concepts at their own pace. That’s the kind of tech that doesn’t just look cool—it actually sticks.