From Phonics to Fluency and Everything in Between

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Episode 1: Technology in the Classroom — How to Use Tech Intentionally Without Letting It Take Over Technology is everywhere in today's classrooms—but is it helping learning, or getting in the way? In the inaugural episode of From Phonics to Fluency: And Everything in Between, host Wendy Hughes welcomes literacy expert and author Dr. Francine Swickheimer to explore one of education's most talked-about topics: the use of technology in the classroom. Drawing on her article, "Screen Time in the Classroom: Purpose Matters More Than Minutes," Dr. Swickheimer shares what research tells us about screen time, student learning, and the critical role teachers play in making technology meaningful. Together, they discuss the difference between technology that enhances instruction and technology that replaces it, practical examples of purposeful implementation, and key questions educators can use to evaluate digital tools. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or campus leader, you'll leave with practical guidance for ensuring technology remains a powerful support for learning—not the driver of it.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why technology itself is neither good nor bad
• How to distinguish purposeful technology use from passive screen time
• When digital tools support learning—and when they can hinder it
• Three key principles for using technology intentionally
• Reflection questions teachers and leaders can use when evaluating technology use in classrooms

Join us as we bridge the gap between research and practice and explore how thoughtful technology use can strengthen teaching and learning. Screen Time in the Classroom: Purpose Matters More Than Minutes Blog Post: https://www.ealiteracyandlearning.com/post...