Awareness and an intentional balance between technology and human connection is essential. Today’s classrooms rarely run analog-only without any digital interaction (yes, even ECE design online, use of projectors, etc.). Educators Jill and Stef share their reflections on keeping the humans in the loop (not just for machine learning), exploring how leveraging technology can go beyond efficiency to create meaningful connections and nurture growth. They share ways to consider how to remain focused on authentic human connection with ed tech–acknowledging technology should not be prioritized over a student-centered learning experience.
The following dialogue stems from Jill and Stefani’s collaboration, both asynchronously and synchronously, after connecting through digital networks in their respective roles. Their co-learning journey grew over the last year as their professional worlds continued to crossover–including Edge•U Badge launching for pre-service educators in Aquinas’ SOE, Jill joining the MACUL Women’s Forum wine night during MACUL24, connecting in Denver at ISTE24, and curiosity (from Stef) and Forward Edge (on Jill’s end) support of EduGuardians. This blog is built off the power of digital networking, common interests, and a passion for ongoing learning with heart.
Fostering a Human Touch in a Tech-heavy World
Can technology genuinely strengthen human relationships? We believe It depends on the intention behind its use. When used mindfully, technology can build bonds, but it’s important to recognize its limitations. While social media can sometimes weaken relationships, digital spaces designed for reflection and interaction—like productive Google Spaces for peer-to-peer support or moderated, authentic digital class discussions—can be powerful tools for genuine connection.
Incorporating the human touch isn’t always about face-to-face contact; it’s about finding ways for digital interactions to feel personal. You can use tools like Google Chat to check in individually to help learners connect in a way they are familiar with. Stef points out how intentional instructional design, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), creates opportunities for each student to engage in ways that work for them, making tech-enhanced interactions feel more inclusive and personal. Jill, echoing this, notes that technology can enhance real-world connections when we focus on building relationships through small but meaningful check-ins and group discussions.
Providing digital feedback in real-time creates meaningful connections and lasting impacts. For instance, offering a learner thoughtful suggestions on their assignment through a platform like Edge•U can inspire confidence and growth. That small, supportive interaction might even lead to meeting them at an education conference, where you exchange smiles and hugs while reflecting on how the feedback made a difference (this happens to Jill at every conference!).
Small, intentional actions—like quick digital check-ins—empower learners to reflect, respond, and improve. Jill believes our efforts should meet the highest standards of instructional practice. To do that, we need meaningful, human feedback—whether it’s affirming what works or helping refine our approach. Personalized feedback–spoken or written–is essential for fostering growth and meeting others where they are.
Together, we underscore that digital feedback, when thoughtful and consistent, can be just as impactful as in-person guidance. Stef advocates for a structured approach, explaining that effective feedback in digital spaces begins with establishing a culture of growth. She uses tools like Mote for voice notes and Google comments with email notifications to make feedback more personal and accessible, ensuring students don’t miss it. Whether using ungraded or non-traditional assessment structures aligned to our practices, feedback should be iterative, evolving into a dialogue rather than remaining a one-way message.
Social Learning Online
Social interaction is central to digital literacy. Collaborative projects (e.g., book clubs, presentations) and interactive learning (e.g., online guest speakers, virtual field trips ) engage students and encourage them to build on each other’s thoughts. These bring learning to life in ways that previously were not possible to foster social engagement. Digital tools create a sense of community where students feel connected to each other and their learning to support access for all learners.
We want to stress the importance of personalization–using students’ names, inviting them to share good news, check-in, or glows to help build rapport. Using interactive note-taking and shared documents fosters accountability and continued dialogue beyond synchronous learning environments (e.g., comments for clarification, links to resources). Don’t forget the power of storytelling and allowing students to bring their unique perspectives into discussions. Together, these ideas illustrate small, intentional actions to help create a warm and welcoming environment in virtual spaces.
We view ethics as essential to also building a safe and respectful learning environment. Ethics are the foundation of a positive digital culture. Stef emphasizes the importance of teaching digital citizenship, saying learners need to understand the responsibilities that come with using technology—such as online etiquette, respecting others, and protecting their privacy (Common Sense: DigCit, ISTE ed standards). When we teach students about things like intellectual property, cyberbullying, and responsible communication, we’re helping them approach technology with mindfulness and integrity. Jill assuredly adds that ethical practices make digital spaces feel more human-centered.
Putting Heart at the Center of EdTech
Jill and Stefani share a passion for using technology to make a difference in education. For them, it’s all about keeping the human in the loop—using digital tools not just for efficiency but to build connections and help students grow in meaningful ways, both academically, socially, and emotionally. This blog is a reflection of our journey, shaped by digital networking, shared experiences, and a commitment to learning with heart.
So, how do you keep the “human in the loop” in your digital learning environment? EduGuardians will be featured speakers at the MACUL25: Humanizing Learning in the Digital Age to discuss their own humanized digital journey. Join the conversation and share your experiences at the MACUL25 conference and connect with us online: Stef on LinkedIn or @sbout.bksy.social; Jill on LinkedIn or @jilliande.bsky.social
Jill DuBois & Stefani Boutelier
January 2025
