KILLEEN, Texas – Not every child has access to high-tech devices, but integrating technology into the classroom can often aid learning.
Student teachers from A&M Central Texas are bringing educational technology to Central Texas schools. The future educators are learning how to use VR headsets and floor robots to teach students with learning abilities.
Pursuing a career in education was an easy decision for Cole Jones.
"I'm motivated and I feel like it's my calling to go into education. It really comes from my background and my home life," explained Jones.
In his educational technology class at A&M Central Texas, the future educator is learning how to use virtual reality headsets for lessons.
"It seems like an experience they may not ever get to experience again," said Jones as he tried out VR.
Dr. Jane Elizabeth Casey teaches the class. She says technology can completely transform a classroom. The VR headsets in particular offer opportunities to explore space and social studies and encourage critical thinking.
"So I think it's important that our students have access to it and then they take it into the schools," said Casey.
All of the student teachers are assigned to Central Texas schools including Oak Creek Academy. Many students at the school have unique learning abilities. Jones and Oak Creek Academy freshman Dominic Rosales worked with an educational robot.
"They're getting to learn math, fine motor skills, and coding," said Jones. "And overall it's just a really neat experience."
The future teacher’s goal is to extend classroom instruction and support student learning.