Giving Compass' Take:

• As some studies show that technology in the classroom can be harmful, the author highlights the opportunities and benefits of tech as a powerful educational tool and a promotes responsibility in managing screen time. 

• What are most teachers' viewpoints on technology in the classroom and it's impact on students? 

• Read about the effect of cell phones and other digital devices on long-term learning. 

Technology's influx into classrooms has bred concern among some regarding the potential distractions that can come alongside its benefits. But there are also a variety of tools that can help alleviate that concern, according to EdTech: Focus on K-12.

To prevent cheating, for example, device management tools allow educators to lock students' screens to a specific window, and keeping activities focused on school-issued devices can also prevent students from being distracted by smartphones or any other devices they bring with them from home.

Tech can be a powerful educational tool, but it also requires educators to teach students how to use it responsibly. Learning how to manage screen time — and time in general — is a must, as distractions are abundant in the digital world.

Fortunately, the time it can also help save educators on a number of fronts, particularly with administrative tasks like taking attendance or calculating grades, can be used in part to instill those lessons.

Along with learning to utilize tech efficiently and effectively, the last few years have seen more attention devoted to teaching students to use it ethically, as well. Digital citizenship lessons have largely focused on preventing cyberbullying and keeping students safe — effectively providing a list of do's and don'ts.

Read the full article about technology in the classroom by Roger Riddell at Education Dive