6 Tips From a Tech Coach and Teacher

After years as an instructional technology specialist, I’ve returned to the classroom as a full-time classroom teacher (pre-K through sixth grade). Stepping back into this role, I’ve found myself equipped with a unique perspective and tools that have transformed how I approach teaching.

While I once focused on supporting teachers in integrating technology in the classroom, I now see the direct impact of these tools on students every day. As a teacher with credentials in instructional technology, I have been able to use what I learned in my previous role to give my students a healthy balance of traditional and technological learning. Here are some lessons I’ve learned that could help other teachers navigate the world of teaching with technology.

6 ways to Balance Technology with Traditional Methods

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that technology is a powerful tool, but it’s not the solution to everything. As an integration specialist, I encouraged teachers to use tech to enhance their instruction, and that advice still holds. Getting caught up using too many digital tools is easy, but balance is critical. 

For example, I might use a platform like Nearpod for interactive lessons or virtual field trips, but I still believe in the power of hands-on projects, group discussions, and face-to-face collaboration. Blending both worlds ensures that students stay engaged while developing various skills.

1. Be intentional with your tech choices. Using the latest app or software is tempting, but just because something is new doesn’t mean it’s effective. I always stressed the importance of aligning technology with learning objectives when coaching teachers. Now, back in the classroom, I continue to prioritize this.

If a tool doesn’t directly support student learning, I don’t use it. I’ve found that sticking with a few core platforms—Schoology for assignments, ClassDojo for communication and behavior management, and Google Slides for student presentations—has helped keep me and my students focused. Tech overload can overwhelm students, so streamlining tools helps create a more efficient learning environment.

2. Embrace flexibility. Being back in the classroom has reminded me of the unpredictable nature of teaching. Technology can sometimes fail, and that’s OK! I’ve learned how to adapt quickly when the internet goes down or a device malfunctions. 

In those moments, I pivot to a nondigital activity or discussion, showing students that flexibility is part of problem-solving. This also builds resilience in students and myself as we navigate daily challenges together. It’s always good to have a backup plan; worksheets shouldn’t be tossed aside. When used to engage in conversation or remediation, they should be a staple.

3. Foster collaboration with technology. One of the biggest strengths of technology in education is its ability to facilitate collaboration. As an instructional coach, I saw countless teachers transform their classrooms using digital tools to connect students to each other both in the classroom and remotely. Now, I use that same approach with my students.

I regularly use tools like Google Slides for collaborative writing and Padlet to share real-time ideas. These platforms allow students to work together, even if they’re not in the same physical space. It’s a great way to encourage peer interaction and build a strong sense of community. I do not assign homework where technology is involved. I like to keep homework as remediation and something families can use to guide their conversations about what is being learned at school.

4. Teach digital citizenship. As much as I love the possibilities of technology, I also know it comes with responsibility. When coaching, I always emphasized teaching students how to navigate the digital world safely and respectfully. In my classroom now, I make digital citizenship a priority. Digital tools like GoGuardian make managing whether or not students are on task much more constructive and doable.

We regularly discuss online behavior, privacy, and the impact of our posts. These conversations help students become more thoughtful about how they use technology, both in and out of the classroom.

5. Don’t be afraid to learn alongside your students. From my years in both roles, I’ve learned that technology is constantly evolving, and none of us will ever know it all. When I first reentered the classroom, I quickly realized that some of the platforms I used to train teachers on had evolved—and so had student needs.

Rather than pretending to have all the answers, I let my students see me learning alongside them. When we encounter a new app or feature, I involve them in the discovery process. This builds a growth mindset and makes students more engaged and confident in their tech abilities.

6. Give yourself—and your students—grace. Being a teacher, especially in the digital age, can be overwhelming. I’ve learned that giving both myself and my students grace is essential. We don’t have to be experts at everything immediately; making mistakes is OK. What matters most is that we’re all learning and growing together.

I also remind myself that teaching is a journey. Just like my students, I’m constantly evolving. Returning to the classroom has shown me that while I might not have all the answers, I have the tools to foster a rich, engaging learning environment where technology enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful instruction.

My former roles have given me invaluable insights that I now apply daily in my classroom. I’ve created a balanced learning environment that supports my students’ growth by intentionally using technology, staying flexible, and focusing on collaboration and digital citizenship with social and emotional learning at the core. Whether you’re a tech-savvy teacher or just starting to explore digital tools, remember that it’s all about finding what works best for you and your students.