56% of teachers say classrooms lack modern tech, SMART survey reveals key challenges
A survey of 2,000 U.S. teachers by SMART Technologies and Lumio has revealed that 56% believe their classrooms lack the technology to meet modern teaching standards.
Despite widespread adoption of education technology, with 85% of teachers using tech multiple times a week, significant gaps in tools and support remain.
Technology use and barriers
The survey revealed that while teachers are integrating digital tools into their lessons, many face challenges with outdated equipment and technical issues. 30% percent of educators identified technical failures as a major barrier to effective use, while nearly 40% cited student distraction, particularly from cell phones, as another key challenge.
Dan McMahon, Vice President of Software at SMART Technologies, emphasized the benefits of addressing these issues:
“More than a third of educators note that enhanced student engagement is one of the biggest benefits of using technology in the classroom. Teachers also acknowledged the critical ability to personalize learning for each student and to accommodate diverse learning needs through technology.”
Teachers' time and resources
The survey also highlighted the toll on teachers’ time, with many reporting they spend more hours creating lesson plans and grading assignments than on personal activities such as socializing, exercising, or cooking. 39% of teachers named the need for time-saving resources like ready-made lesson content as a priority.
Interactive displays with advanced features topped the list of desired tools, with 46% of educators citing them as their most needed classroom technology.
Supporting diverse learners
70% of teachers said they feel equipped to support diverse learners, including neurodivergent students and those requiring extra help. These educators believe technology plays a critical role in meeting varied learning needs, and 72% said their students would describe them as tech-savvy.
"Educators' time is precious. Between planning lessons and grading assignments, every minute counts. The survey results show that teachers are driven by the opportunity to positively impact their students' lives, so we're providing tools that enrich their work in the classroom and free up time for the personal moments and activities that matter to them outside of school,” said McMahon.
