Group 1

H.E.L.P Teaching in 2040: The Evolving Role of Educators in Toronto's Future Classrooms

Abstract

In 2040, the primary mode of schooling follows a remote-learning format with heavy screen based learning from the comfort of the students home. This poses the question: what is the role of the teacher if students are receiving their knowledge from technology? This paper examines four key topics: evaluation methods, Indigenous knowledge and relationships, hybrid learning, and mental health challenges for teachers. It concludes that by the year 2040, the role of educators in Toronto will evolve into that of 'technology facilitators' rather than the holistic teachers we see today.

Diary Entries

Chantel - Individual Entry

The time has come. This is my last letter to you. By now, you must feel overwhelmed by the harsh realities of 2040 and what is to come. Yet, I write to you to express that you, as an educator, are the bridge between what humanity needs and the effects technology has had on us. It is evident that the ones who once said, “Technology cannot replace teachers” were false, and it continues to be a problematic situation in time.

Many educators struggle to understand how and why technology has replaced their positions. Motivation is nearly extinct, morale is at an all-time low, and teachers no longer have that spark in their eyes that they once had. My heart breaks more and more every day as I watch teachers slowly walk into their classrooms, where they typically greet their students every day and see no one but their coworkers. For all individuals, the need for human connection is a crucial factor in maintaining mental health. Now, think about the question as you read the remainder of what I have left to say, “What is the role of the teacher if technology does everything for you?”.

Here in 2040, the presence of technology has created a profound challenge for teachers. Although technology is an issue, the real challenge is human. The rise of mental health has taken a devastating toll on educators. I understand that all teachers do experience burnout, anxiety, and stress. However, what we face now is nothing like what we have previously encountered. It is important to remember that “teachers' psychological and mental health is of utmost importance as it indirectly affects the students they teach”(Agyapong et al., 2022). Without your efforts, willingness, and drive, the longevity of this profession will be at an all-time low.

You may ask yourself, “What can I do today to improve teachers' overall well-being and education as a whole?”. Well, I will provide you with three reasons that I believe will help spark the change that educators need in order to maintain a healthy well-being. Three Changes to Improve Teachers’ Well-Being: Create Professional Boundaries

As a teacher, you understand that saying “No” is often difficult. You either take on too many school teams or overlook too many after-school clubs, but you need to learn to prioritize your mental health. It is important to remember that burnout, “a stress-related problem for individuals who work in interpersonally oriented occupations” (Agyapong et al., 2022) does occur. If you begin to promote self-care, it will lead to fewer worries while you are educating students of the future. Encourage Connection

In your classroom, students have their own issues that they may not share. They may be going through a hard time that you are unaware of. By creating check-ins with your students once a week, the students will gain your trust and want to talk to you more and more. Not only will this help your students, but you will feel refreshed and confident as you see your purpose in your position. Create Support Systems Currently, hybrid learning does not promote support systems. Nor does it promote human connection and relationships. By creating support systems in your classroom and with other educators, teacher wellbeing would be reconnected and an enhancement of job satisfaction would occur.

Before I say my goodbyes, I will leave you with hope. Hope that you understand that your job is not replaceable. A machine or screen does not provide students with confidence, personal growth, and guidance – YOU do. Preserve with purpose through the difficult days that lay ahead. Remember, an educator’s wellbeing may change each day, but your actions today will shape the future generations to come.

Mission complete!

Messenger #346

References

Agyapong, B., Obuobi-Donkor, G., Burback, L., & Wei, Y. (2022). Stress, Burnout, Anxiety and Depression among Teachers: A Scoping Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(17). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710706

Boud, D. (2000). "Sustainable Assessment: Rethinking Assessment for the Learning Society"

Brayboy & Maughan (2009). Indigenous Knowledge and the Story of the Bean, Harvard Educational Review, 79(1).

Harris. S. Kara. Rogers. E. George., “Soft skills in the technology education classroom: What do students need?” The Technology Teacher (2008).