Tech Coaches Enhance Student Learning Through VR Experience at McMahon School

The Lewiston Public Schools School Committee Meeting on March 19, 2025, highlighted innovative teaching methods and the ongoing need for technology training among educators. The meeting featured discussions on how technology coaches are collaborating with teachers to enhance student learning experiences.

One notable example shared involved a tech coach and a literacy coach working with a teacher at McMahon School. They integrated virtual reality (VR) into a lesson on Anne Frank, allowing students to experience her story in an immersive way. Using MediQuest goggles, students could explore environments related to Anne Frank's life, deepening their understanding beyond traditional reading.

The tech coach's role is to ensure teachers become comfortable with new technologies, enabling them to implement these tools independently in future lessons. Another example included the use of merge cubes, where students designed 3D images, further illustrating the hands-on approach to learning.

The meeting also addressed the high demand for technology training among teachers. Sessions offered at elementary schools filled quickly, indicating a strong interest in professional development. However, scheduling constraints limit the frequency of these training opportunities. To address this, tech coaches have been encouraged to offer training during teachers' prep times, making resources more accessible.

In addition to technology integration, the meeting touched on creative teaching methods, such as a foreign language teacher who used escape rooms for exams, which engaged students in a fun and interactive way.

The discussions underscored the importance of adapting teaching strategies to meet students' needs and the ongoing commitment to providing educators with the necessary tools and training to succeed. As the school year progresses, the focus remains on enhancing educational experiences through innovative technology and collaborative teaching practices.