Technology Coaching Meets Immersive Learning: A New Educational Era
In the vibrant landscape of educational technology, Miguel Quinteros stands out as a remarkable figure. With over a decade of experience as an innovative educator, he has continually pushed the boundaries to make learning more captivating, intuitive, and accessible for students. His journey exemplifies how technological advancements can transform educational experiences.
Quinteros’s transition from a tech-savvy teacher to a K-12 technology coach in Michigan’s Mason County Central School District showcases his commitment to solving educational challenges. In this role, he navigates obstacles for educators and students, ensuring that learning remains an engaging adventure.
In 2022, an opportunity to blend his passion for teaching with cutting-edge technology emerged in the form of a multi-sensory immersive room. This unique setup utilizes augmented and virtual reality to create a dynamic learning environment, allowing students to explore topics like World War I trenches or the depths of the ocean in a sensory-rich context. Under Quinteros’s guidance, these immersive experiences are crafted to deepen student engagement without the pressures of traditional grading or discipline. Instead, they focus entirely on the joy of learning.
Quinteros shares that his role is primarily about facilitating fun and intuitive learning experiences: “I just get to do the fun part now: teach.” He integrates state-of-the-art interactive technologies to bring lessons to life in a way that textbooks simply cannot.
For readers of SCORM.biz, an eLearning instructional design advocate, Quinteros’s story offers valuable insights into leveraging technology to enhance educational outcomes. The tech coach role has evolved, showing that educational professionals can use technology to support teachers and create dynamic learning environments.
Name: Miguel Quinteros
Age: 51
Location: Scottville, Michigan
Role: K-12 technology coach
Years in the field: Three in current role, after 11 as a teacher
Innovation in Education: An Interview with Miguel Quinteros
What motivated your move to a technology coach?
Miguel Quinteros: Originating from El Salvador, my journey brought me to the United States for medical reasons. Settling into the role of a youth minister introduced me to working with young people, which led me to teaching. When selecting a major, integrating social studies with computer science seemed a natural fit, focusing on technology use within classrooms to enhance teaching.
Following the pandemic, the demand for tech-savvy educators rose sharply, opening opportunities such as the technology coaching position I currently hold.
How do you describe your work to others at social gatherings?
I generally refrain from discussing my profession in causal settings due to preconceived notions about my background. However, with genuinely interested individuals, I open up about my role as a technology coach, explaining my responsibilities in facilitating classroom engagement through technology.
What unique contributions do you make to students’ daily learning experiences?
Utilizing an AR/VR immersive room, I enrich student experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. This space offers versatile, interactive lessons ranging from lunar explorations to underwater adventures. Engaging students with touch-interactive walls and sensory elements like background scents, I aim to transport them to different worlds, fostering a profound connection to their lessons.
Your thoughts on the educational system and what you’d like to see change?
The education sector would immensely benefit from a higher degree of respect and support for teaching professionals. More flexible curriculums could tailor educational paths to diverse student needs, mastering skills pertinent to their interests and future ambitions.
Final thoughts on the joy of working with children?
The sincerity and enthusiasm of young minds continuously remind me of the joy embedded in life’s simple pleasures. Fostering an educational environment where learning equates to fun remains my ultimate goal, inspired by the lively queries and genuine interest of students.
For educational designers and instructors focused on eLearning innovations, leveraging technology like Quinteros does can transform learning environments exponentially.
Original Source: EdSurge Article
