Mr. Joe Nardella of the science department is stepping into the role of director of educational technology for the 2024-25 school year. After the departure of Mr. Patrick Sullivan last summer, the school has been without a director of educational technology even though it has had Mr. Rob Horan ’12 as assistant director. Mr. Nardella seems optimistic, and he has taken a driven approach to the role.
Mr. Nardella started teaching at Gonzaga at the start of last school year. He received his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Scranton and has a master’s degree in biomedical science policy and advocacy from Georgetown University. He implements technology into his own classroom, and this experience makes for a smooth transition into the role of director of educational technology. His students affirm that his use of technology in the classroom is effective.
“I had Mr. Nardella for chemistry last year, and his use of PHET simulations as well as shared online guided notes helped me master the content,” Brian Langevin ‘24 said.
Mr. Nardella’s experience teaching him gives a unique perspective on how to properly implement technology into the classroom. He also plans on collaborating closely with teachers.
“My first year, a lot of what I do will be listening to the faculty. Understanding what the faculty would like to do in their classroom and researching the best opportunities for that is one of our primary objectives,” Mr. Nardella said.
In addition to his collaboration with teachers, Mr. Nardella’s collaboration with students has made a positive impact. Students report a positive culture in the classroom and that he is very supportive while pushing them to be their best selves.
“Mr. Nardella always uplifted me not just as a student but as a person. His class left a very positive impact on my development,” Alex Bovim ‘24 said.
With the dawn of artificial intelligence, it is foreseeable that Gonzaga’s current approach to educational technology will likely continue to evolve. Mr. Nardella emphasized the significance of artificial intelligence in education.
“A lot of what is at the forefront of educational technology is AI, so it will be interesting to see and research what that looks like next year and beyond,” Mr. Nardella said.
Considering educational technology at Gonzaga, adaptability and collaboration seem to be the core values of Mr. Nardella’s vision for the future. By following trends, analyzing results and communicating with both students and teachers, Mr. Nardella plans to make a positive impact on the Gonzaga community as the next director of educational technology.