An Exciting Tool for New and Experienced Educators

Technology continues to play a pivotal role in shaping how we teach and learn. My fear is that technology will be accepted as the “most important tool for teachers” and contribute to the de-professionalisation of the role as well as de-value the role relationships play as the foundation of great teaching. And maybe part of me is feeling threatened by technology and the fast pace of change in the twilight years of my teaching career!

However, one of the most exciting advancements I’ve been introduced to is the AI tool, Noticing. This innovative platform is amazing at scaffolding reflection and simplifies lesson planning. By removing the tedium of creating the physical lesson plan, I found it allowed for more creative thinking and planning. It was particularly helpful when I was feeling mentally stretched by competing work demands.

Now I am more confident in using it myself, I can see the major benefits it brings into my work as initial teacher education director.

1. Empowering Student Learning Through Reflection

One of the standout features of Noticing is its ability to shift the focus of the user from information generator to knowledge application and problem solving. Instead of simply providing my preservice teachers with answers, Noticing encourages them to reflect, analyze, and utilize their existing knowledge. This reflective approach not only deepens understanding but also fosters critical thinking skills.

By using Noticing, students become active participants in their learning journey. They are challenged to apply what they know in meaningful ways, which helps to close the theory-practice divide that can exist in preservice teacher education.

2. Streamlining Lesson Planning with Personalization

As someone who is passionate about inclusive education, I love the way the teacher’s knowledge about the class is instrumental in the planning process. The teacher continues to play an important role in the planning process and outcome- not the machine. Noticing excels in tailoring lessons to meet the specific outcomes, learning needs and contexts of individual classrooms based on teachers’ knowledge and therefore valuing the educator.

This level of personalization ensures that the lessons are relevant and engaging for students, and thought has been prompted in areas where the lesson has the potential to come unstuck- such as during transitions. Noticing adapts to the needs indicated by the user, saving time and enhancing the quality and effectiveness of planning and ultimately teaching and learning.

3. Boosting Educator Confidence in AI Integration

One of the most significant barriers to adopting new technologies for me, and others, is the fear of the unknown. It is common to hear about new and experienced teachers being hesitant to integrate AI tools into their practice due to concerns about complexity or a lack of familiarity. Noticing addresses these concerns by making AI integration seamless and intuitive. By taking a few hours to play around with Noticing, it has saved me hours in planning over a period. The investment of time is well worth it. If people continue to do things like they have always done- nothing will change. Time poor teachers will remain time poor. Here is a tool to save time — and add quality to your work. Over time, I have gained confidence in using AI as a valuable resource rather than a daunting challenge. It is worth taking the leap!

Incorporating Noticing into your classroom can be a game-changer, making the integration of AI a smooth and rewarding process. As you continue to explore its capabilities, you’ll find that it not only supports your teaching efforts but also inspires a new level of confidence and creativity in your approach to education.