Students are resistant to using innovative technology tools. How can you engage them effectively?

Show them the cool side of the tech—do a demo to highlight how it makes things easier or more fun. Let them play around with it and get their hands dirty. Offer some rewards or shout-outs for giving it a go. Keep things relaxed and casual to make it less of a big deal.

Well, you can't resolve a conflict unless you appropriately diagnose it. And this is a classroom. And yes many tools are available to kids. I think the first step with this is to take some time out from class (hey the learners aren't learning anyway) if it is a large group or talk to individuals during independent practice and find out what's wrong. Let them vent. And don't have any preconceptions; the solution may literally reveal itself during their venting session. Educators have to be fluid and ready to adjust learning processes as there are a broad range of abilities amongst learners.

Comece introduzindo a tecnologia de maneira gradual, destacando como ela pode facilitar suas tarefas e melhorar o aprendizado. Utilize exemplos práticos que demonstrem os benefícios diretos e ofereça suporte constante para que eles se sintam confiantes e confortáveis no uso dessas ferramentas. Ao tornar o processo mais acessível e relevante, a resistência tende a diminuir, e os alunos começam a perceber o valor das inovações tecnológicas em suas jornadas educacionais.

A lot of people will simply say, "Well they can play Nintendo and get on TikTok, why not this?" Well, if you're not asking the question sarcastically, you can find out. Motivation is key and you'd be surprised what students struggle with. We as educators cannot "ask fish to climb trees", we have to find steady, gentle, undersea currents for them to flourish it. Find what makes them flourish...changing protocols, switching out software, or any adjustments that do not sacrifice rigor. Many students will notice this effort and engage. And even the ones who don't will have alternative systems to use. Whatever gets the class working is what you have to do.

A great way to engage students is with a collaborative Generative AI experience. With tools like GroupChat, students can see how efficiently their peers are navigating their learning experiences in a way that feels natural and relevant. Professors can use AI to personalize content and feedback throughout the learning process, offering students tailored feedback that meets them where they are. Introduce AI-driven projects that allow students to create something unique, such as generating creative writing, artwork, or even code. When students see how AI can amplify their creativity and learning outcomes, resistance turns into curiosity and excitement. Keep the focus on AI as a partner in their educational journey, not just another tool.

I agree. In my experience you could start by understanding their individual needs, interests, and learning styles. Use technology to create customized learning paths, offering choices in how they complete assignments or access materials. Incorporate tools that relate directly to their goals or passions, making the technology relevant and meaningful. Provide support and encouragement, showing how these tools can enhance their learning outcomes. Additionally, give students the autonomy to explore and experiment with technology at their own pace, fostering a sense of ownership and reducing resistance.

This is a really relevant point. We know that motivation rises when people understand "WHY" they do something (see "golden circle"). Showcasing the relevance of digital skills for their career and future-readiness is super important. Make sure the content of your class is aligned with this, as well.

We need to play what we pray. If we teach innovation, we need to pratice innovation. If we want students to be open-minded, innovators, think ahead, holistics, we need to do the same. And if we want real-world relevance, we need to offer relevant education. A few years ago, we revamped and redesigned the whole master program, focusing on problem-solving through innovation. But to do so, we started by changing the way we think, design and plan the program itself. We started with "why". Why do we do this? What is the final outcome for students? Our starting point was the difference they could make in the world and in their professional career. Fostering a culture of innovation starts on the education team's mindset itself.

So, most people would look at this and address it with. "This is how it works in the real world". And while that isn't untrue, I don't want to do that here. Times are different. There's a lot going on in the world and an unprecedented amount of things today's children may fear or not understand about the future. Heck, adults struggle with this. Maybe show them how it works in their world instead. Bridging the gap between what they know and what they have to grow into is the essence of education. We as educators have to find creative ways to do this. Sometimes it may be relating an EdTech app to their favorite game or app. Let children be children; they have plenty of time to grow up.