Emphasizing Human-Centered Approaches Over Technology Mediation
Dr. Michael Nagler, New York's Innovative Education Leader, Embraces Technology for Creativity and Critical Thinking
Dr. Michael Nagler, Superintendent of Minneola USFD in New York, recently received the Most Innovative Superintendent award at a Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summit. His forward-thinking approach to technology integration in education has set him apart.
Nagler's philosophy is centered around technology growth being teacher-driven, allowing educators to embrace and adapt ideas to make them work for them. He views direct instruction as a vestige of a past time and advocates for engaging students differently through technology to better prepare them for the future, including the rise of AI.
"My philosophy is, it's got to be teacher-driven," Nagler states. He encourages his schools to embrace technology in a thoughtful manner, focusing on its use as a tool to promote changes in teaching and learning, rather than as the answer itself.
More than 10 years ago, the Minneola district embraced the iPad, becoming one-to-one with the technology within two years. Nagler emphasizes the importance of sticking with one form of technology for the district to keep students involved in the innovation process.
Nagler believes that creating with technology is more important than mere web-based activities, and this is why Minneola is an Apple Distinguished district. He stresses the need for fostering creativity in students through technology to help them stay ready for a future in technology.
Under Nagler's leadership, Minneola was one of the first school districts in New York to implement a comprehensive computer science curriculum starting in kindergarten. He advocates for a driven sense of inclusion for teachers in making innovative advances within the school and the district.
Nagler understands that not allowing technology to take over is fundamental in providing a leveled educational experience. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students relevant skills for their professional lives, noting that technology cannot replace the human element.
By blending digital tools with traditional liberal arts education, Nagler's approach supports critical and creative thinking, deeper understanding, reflective thinking, and creativity. He balances digital literacy with the cultivation of imagination and insight, ensuring that technology acts as a facilitator and not a distraction or a substitute for creative intellectual work.
In conclusion, Dr. Michael Nagler's approach to technology integration in education is a testament to his commitment to preparing students for the future while safeguarding creativity and human values. His innovative leadership continues to inspire educators and students alike.
- Dr. Michael Nagler promotes a teacher-driven approach to technology growth, encouraging educators to use it as a tool to promote changes in teaching and learning.
- Under his leadership, the Minneola district implemented a comprehensive computer science curriculum starting in kindergarten, emphasizing inclusion for teachers in making innovative advances.
- Nagler advocates for creating with technology rather than merely engaging in web-based activities, with a focus on fostering creativity in students.
- The district, under Nagler's guidance, became one-to-one with the iPad over 10 years ago and remains committed to a single form of technology to keep students engaged in the innovation process.
- By balancing digital literacy with the cultivation of imagination and insight, Nagler ensures that technology acts as a facilitator, not a distraction or a substitute for creative intellectual work, supporting critical and creative thinking in students.
