Technology as a Mediator: Bridging Teachers, Students, and Learning Materials in the Digital Age
Submitted by:
Rawya Burbara
Abstract:
Technology as a Mediator: Bridging Teachers, Students, and Learning Materials in the Digital Age
Context
The educational landscape has undergone a profound historical transformation from the traditional classroom setup to today's technology-infused learning environments. This evolution reflects not merely technological advancement but a fundamental shift in how knowledge is created, disseminated, and internalized. In subjects like Arabic language instruction, where historical and cultural dimensions add complexity through phenomena like diglossia, technology serves not merely as an instructional tool but as a crucial mediator transforming otherwise distant content into accessible, engaging learning experiences.
Aims
This presentation examines technology's role as a mediator in the educational triad of teacher-student-content, demonstrating how digital tools can transform passive learning experiences into active, engaging interactions. Through three distinct projects implemented by us at the Israeli Ministry of Education, we illustrate how technology can enhance teaching methodologies, expand learning opportunities, and foster student autonomy while addressing specific educational challenges.
Methods
The study presents three complementary technological initiatives:
1. The Writing Initiative: A pioneering computerized model for teaching Arabic as a mother tongue that employs a four-stage approach (preparatory, reading comprehension, writing, and evaluation).
2. Digital Teaching Units: An innovative platform enabling teachers to rapidly create rich, interactive lessons incorporating multiple engaging activities. These units provide structured yet flexible frameworks that allow teachers to customize content while maintaining pedagogical coherence.
3. Digital Courses for Independent Learning: Student-centered digital courses that promote autonomous learning through technology. These courses shift the educational paradigm from teacher-centered instruction to student-led exploration, allowing learners to progress at their own pace while developing digital literacy skills.
Findings
These three projects demonstrate technology's potential as a mediator between teachers, students, and learning materials:
• Makes lesson preparation experience for teachers easier and more engaging
• Transforms the learning experience for students to be more interesting and effective
• Makes learning materials more attractive and accessible
Discussion
The findings suggest that successful digital integration in education requires attention to the specific needs of different subject areas, thoughtful consideration of user experience for both teachers and students, and ongoing adaptation to emerging technologies. As education systems worldwide respond to digital "newness," these projects offer valuable insights into creating balanced approaches that leverage technology's strengths while preserving educational fundamentals.
Keywords: educational technology, digital mediation, teacher-student-content triad, Arabic language education, digital literacy, autonomous learning, Israeli education system