College of Education and Human Services continues to empower educators through technology integration

MURRAY, Ky. – Murray State University's Kentucky Academy of Technology Education (KATE) has been supporting instructional technology in Kentucky for over two decades. Since its inception in 1998, KATE has worked to enhance student learning through the effective use of technology in education.

KATE’s mission is to impact student learning by improving technology integration within educational environments. As a part of the College of Education and Human Services (COEHS), KATE works closely with faculty, staff and students within the college and collaborates with P-12 teachers and administrators within Murray State's service region to provide professional development opportunities to enhance teaching practices.

KATE also participates in groups supporting teaching and learning at the regional and state levels. This engagement nurtures ongoing relationships with COEHS graduates and keeps KATE abreast of the latest technology needs and trends in Kentucky.

Vital support for COEHS

As the primary technology support for COEHS, KATE plays a pivotal role in guiding technology decisions and identifying professional development needs. Dr. Jennifer Earls, KATE director, emphasizes that KATE is dedicated to studying and integrating the latest technology to provide learning opportunities for teacher candidates, faculty and P-12 educators.

Specifically, KATE collaborates with COEHS teacher education faculty to integrate technology into courses, ensuring a technology-rich learning environment and practice needed by teacher candidates for technology skills they will use in their future teaching positions. Earls envisions an increased demand for the department's services in the years to come. She underscores the importance of adapting to the ever-evolving technological landscape.

“Our future is teeming with opportunities to support the mission of Murray State while helping educators use technology in meaningful ways,” Earls said.

Evolving to support education

Earls stresses the need for school districts and the COEHS to continually embrace technological change in curriculum and instruction. With the University’s continued support, KATE will be there to lead educators and students in this journey. KATE sees its contributions as an invaluable investment in the education of all students in the Murray State service region. As technology evolves, so do instructional methods, and KATE remains committed to driving innovation in education.

To learn more about the Kentucky Academy of Technology Education, e-mail msu.kate@murraystate.edu or call 270-809-5360.