Responsible Use of Technology in the Classroom

Learning is, at its core, a human endeavor.

As conversations about screen time in schools continue to evolve, educators, families, and policymakers are asking important questions about the role technology should play in classrooms.

Dedicated teachers, strong relationships, and thoughtful instructional design are what drive real and lasting student growth. Technology can support this work when it is used purposefully, transparently, and in service of teacher-led instruction.

Our Perspective on Responsible Technology Use

Learning Is Driven by People

Skilled educators lead instruction, build relationships, and create the conditions for deep student engagement. Technology should reinforce this work, not replace it. Our programs are designed to support teachers as decision makers, helping them understand what students know, what they are ready to learn next, and how to respond instructionally.

Concerns about Screen Time Are Real

Families, educators, and policymakers are right to be thoughtful and cautious about student screen time. Not all screen time is the same. Unstructured or distracting device use is very different from intentional, well-designed digital learning experiences guided by teachers and bound by clear expectations.

Quality and Purpose Matter

Research from respected organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Joan Ganz Cooney Center, shows that high-quality digital learning experiences can support academic growth when used intentionally, in structured ways, and alongside strong instruction. Screen time varies widely in its impact, depending on how, why, and for how long technology is used.

Students Remain at the Center

Teachers shape the instructional experience, deciding when to use data, how to group students, and how to blend print, discussion, hands-on learning, and digital tools.

Purposeful Technology Supports Better Teaching and Learning

Evidence-based digital resources help teachers personalize instruction and use their time more efficiently.

The Impact of Teacher-Directed Technology

Our programs are backed by rigorous evidence and real-world results. A growing body of independent and internal research shows that structured, intentional use of i-Ready supports meaningful academic growth.

• Students using i-Ready Personalized Instruction demonstrate greater average gains in reading and mathematics than students who do not use the program.
• Students who use i-Ready as recommended show significantly stronger learning outcomes than those who do not.

When used responsibly, high-quality education technology can strengthen learning while preserving the human connections that matter most.

Explore Research

Guidance for Responsible Technology Use in the Classroom

We provide clear guidance to help educators and families use our programs as intended. Our goal is purposeful, balanced use of technology that strengthens teacher-led instruction and supports student learning.

Guidance for Educators

We equip educators with professional learning and practical tools to ensure effective implementation.

• Follow recommended time guidelines.
• Monitor progress and engagement.
• Use data to inform small group instruction.
• Plan meaningful learning beyond screens.
• Technology supports instruction, it doesn’t replace it.

Guidance for Families

We believe families deserve clarity about screen use and how to support learning at home.

• Confirm what your child should work on.
• Check progress and lesson completion weekly.
• Encourage short sessions and balanced routines.
• Celebrate effort and growth.