I had the incredible experience of modeling lessons in virtual video call classrooms with 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders last week. The day increased my empathy for teachers in the distance learning environment, and left me inspired by students who have become teachers themselves regarding technology.

As I was teaching the students how to split the screen on their chromebook, a student piped up, “I found a different way, I pushed this button and the zoom window got smaller!” This 8 year old student was referring to the minimize button on his chromebook keyboard. As an edtech coach, I certainly know the function of the minimize/maximize key, but I hadn’t thought of using it in this particular situation. This student had not been directed or taught to use this key, he discovered it out of curiosity. Students who wonder, who experiment, who have the freedom and confidence to use a tool or strategy outside of their teacher’s direct instruction – these are the students that become the critical thinkers the world of today needs. And while these skills will support them in the long term, they have short term benefits as well. The students become teachers to their peers and also their adult instructors.

Encourage your students to share tips and tricks they have discovered on the technology they are utilizing. Ask them to teach each other, and you, to share their efficiency hacks. And watch as they grow in confidence, creativity, and character.

More student empowerment examples are found in The Complete EdTech Coach – An Organic Approach to Supporting Digital Learning