Restorative Technology: Using Instructional Tech to Foster Equity, Engagement, and Eliminate Technoskepticism

Outline

Outline:
Introduction
Overview of the restorative continuum (Winston) and its relationship to instructional technology.
Brief explanation of technoskepticism: What it is and why it's a challenge in educational settings.
Section 1: Aligning ISTE Standards with Restorative Practices
ISTE Standards for Students:

Empowered Learner (ISTE 1): Technology fosters self-directed learning, aligning with affective statements by promoting responsibility and accountability.
Digital Citizen (ISTE 2): Encourages respectful online interactions, mirroring restorative language in physical and digital spaces.
ISTE Standards for Educators:

Collaborator (ISTE 2.4): Using tech to facilitate communication in restorative circles and conferences.
Facilitator (ISTE 2.6): Designing digital experiences that empower students to be active participants in restorative processes.
Restorative Continuum Applications:

Affective statements and questions using digital platforms (e.g., journaling tools, discussion boards).
Restorative circles using video conferencing tools or classroom apps.
Section 2: Leveraging Technology to Enhance Restorative Interventions
How technology can facilitate restorative conversations and mediation (Winston’s continuum).
Tools that support SEL and mindfulness through personalized learning platforms.
Virtual spaces for restorative circles and peer mediation, including apps like Flipgrid or Google Meet.
Section 3: Overcoming Technoskepticism with Restorative Technology
Addressing the skepticism toward technology by highlighting:
Data-Driven Success: Show how tech can track progress in restorative interventions (behavior tracking, SEL assessments).
Equity and Inclusion: Differentiated learning pathways and multilingual tools for students from diverse backgrounds.
Engagement Strategies: Use of gamification, interactive platforms, and digital storytelling to promote participation.
Section 4: Workshop and Q&A
Interactive Activity: Participants brainstorm and share how they would apply restorative technology tools to their own classrooms, guided by ISTE standards.
Open floor for Q&A to address specific challenges, including overcoming technoskepticism.

Supporting research

This session draws on the research of key thought leaders in restorative practices and education:

The Restorative Continuum creators provide the foundational framework for restorative practices, showing how affective statements and circles build relationships and resolve conflicts. Technology is integrated as an essential tool to scale these practices in digital learning environments.

Eric Jensen's research on brain-based learning highlights the impact of social and emotional factors on academic success. Using technology to support restorative practices ensures that educators address both cognitive and emotional engagement, promoting a holistic learning experience for students.

Johann Hari's work on attention and focus underscores the importance of fostering environments that support deep engagement, which can be bolstered through carefully designed restorative technology practices. His research on combating technoskepticism also informs how technology can be used to regain student attention and foster connection.

Jonathan Haidt’s research on moral psychology and social behavior aligns with restorative practices by exploring how individuals build trust, resolve conflicts, and work together in community. Technology, when thoughtfully integrated, becomes a means to support these moral and social processes in the classroom.