As an advocate for educational innovation, Eric Dick recognizes the immense potential of technology to transform teaching and learning in the 21st century. He wants to see schools in Harris County leverage the latest tools and platforms to create more engaging, personalized, and effective learning experiences for all students.
Dick supports initiatives to expand student and teacher access to technology, including efforts to close the "digital divide" that can leave some students at a disadvantage. This could include investments in school technology infrastructure, such as high-speed internet and device access programs, and partnerships with community organizations to provide technology resources and training to families.
Beyond access, Dick believes in the importance of using technology in purposeful, pedagogically sound ways that enhance, rather than replace, human interaction and instruction. He wants to see more professional development opportunities for teachers to learn how to integrate technology effectively into their practice, using tools like learning management systems, digital content resources, and formative assessment platforms to support student learning.
Dick is particularly excited about the potential of personalized learning technologies, such as adaptive software and intelligent tutoring systems, to help students learn at their own pace and receive targeted support based on their individual needs. By using data to inform instruction and provide real-time feedback, these tools can help educators tailor their teaching to each student's strengths, interests, and areas for growth.
At the same time, Dick recognizes that technology is not a panacea and that effective implementation requires careful planning, ongoing support, and attention to issues of privacy, security, and digital citizenship. He believes schools are responsible for teaching students how to use technology safely, ethically, and responsibly, with an understanding of both the opportunities and risks of the digital world.
Ultimately, Dick believes that by harnessing the power of technology in service of excellent teaching and learning, we can create more equitable, engaging, and effective schools that prepare all students for success in the 21st century.