Wish you had an easy to understand and apply set of expectations for technology in education? The Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) has you covered. We’ve introduced Essential Learning Expectations (ELEs) to guide educators in preparing students for the modern world. Let’s explore briefly how these ELEs can transform professional learning in schools.
Embracing Technology Integration
Technology integration is a cornerstone of the TCEA ELEs. Teachers are expected to seamlessly incorporate technology into their practices, including the use of AI tools to enhance student learning. TCEA offers student AI literacy frameworks, as well as a specific ELE for AI in Education.
Classroom Scenario: Mrs. Rodriguez uses AI-powered writing assistants in her English class. “By integrating these tools, students not only improve their essays but also learn to critically evaluate AI-generated content,” she explains.
Did You Know?
TCEA is available to provide professional learning on the topics covered in the TCEA Essential Learning Expectations. You can also access a list of TCEA ELEs aligned online, self-paced courses.Fostering Digital Literacy
The ELEs emphasize the importance of digital literacy, particularly in evaluating online information and combating misinformation.
Classroom Scenario: Mr. Chen guides his students through a fact-checking exercise. “We’re learning to verify online sources and recognize credible information. It’s crucial in today’s digital age,” he notes.
Promoting Inclusive Learning Environments
Creating inclusive classrooms that respect diversity is a key focus of the ELEs.
Classroom Scenario: Ms. Thompson implements culturally responsive teaching methods. “By valuing diverse backgrounds, we create an environment where all students feel engaged and motivated to learn,” she shares.
Essential Learning Expectations
The TCEA Essential Learning Expectations (get the PDF or align your documents to TCEA ELEs) provide a comprehensive framework for educators to create engaging, effective, and inclusive learning environments. By focusing on technology integration, digital literacy, and inclusive teaching, these ELEs prepare students for success in an increasingly complex world.
Guided Activities
Take a peek at how classroom learning aligns to an Essential Learning Expectation:
| Activity | Description | Target Audience | Aligned ELE |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Writing Workshop | Introduce AI writing tools and discuss their impact | High School Students | Teacher ELE 1.0 Tech Integration, Student ELE 1.0 Tech Savvy, Education AI ELE 3.0 AI-Enhanced Learning |
| Digital Fact-Checking Challenge | Practice verifying online information | Middle School Students | Teacher ELE 2.0 Digital Literacy, Student ELE 2.0 Online Safety, Education AI ELE 4.0 AI and Critical Thinking |
| Cultural Diversity Project | Create presentations celebrating different cultures | Elementary Students | Teacher ELE 3.0 Inclusive Teaching, Student ELE 3.0 Collaborative Learner |