Knobull's Research Shows That Teachers Want To Upgrade Technology Education

BOSTON - Dec. 21, 2021 - PRLog -- For years, technology companies everywhere have argued they can't make their workforces more diverse unless the nation's school systems interest more students in computer science and related technology fields. Research completed by the Knobull team suggests that educators across the U.S. want to do more to encourage students' technology and digital literacy.

Lynn Bentley, President of Knobull reported, "Upgrading classroom technology and learning tools (cited by 65 percent), curriculum updates (58 percent) and developing post-graduation pathways for students (52 percent) are some of the steps that education professionals would like to take in response to growing student interest in digital literacy and technology."

What will it actually take to prepare classrooms to better teach technology and digital literacy? Some 61 percent indicate that "hands on" learning tools such as labs and simulations were essential, while 52 percent think teachers needed better support materials and training. Another 52 percent reported "relevant materials that resonate with students," while 34 percent want resources connected to "employability skills."

Some 68 percent believed their schools' current technology and digital literacy programs met expectations, while just over half (56 percent) want these programs as a requirement for students at some point between 7th and 12th grade. Common class offerings include an introduction to computers and technology (61 percent of all schools), computer science (54 percent), introduction to digital skills and literacy (45 percent) and programming, coding and software development (41 percent).

Bentley concluded, "For those interested in computer science, but whose schools might not offer the right resources and classes, there are also lots of opportunities online to learn on your own. Self-learning can be an effective way to upgrade your skill-set, even if you're not getting what you need in the classroom."