Opinion: Students and Teachers Need the Same Thing: Connection

Connection means something very different for educators than it once did. A word that once meant WiFi in the classroom now refers to deeper relationships that spark learning. That concept of connection is driving new approaches in education.

When SXSW EDU launched in 2011, digital learning was on the rise. Computers were becoming commonplace in the classroom, not just in labs down the hall. Digital resources like tutoring videos and edtech platforms were expanding what education could offer. Connection meant accessing tools, people and expertise outside of the classroom.  

The value of technology in education can’t be understated. Even before the COVID pandemic forced schools into fully remote learning, digital platforms were optimizing outcomes. According to a Gallup report, 81% of educators saw value in digital learning tools. They could accentuate lessons with research, customize projects for student needs, connect students with learnings for potential careers and so much more.

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At the same time, digital connection has its downsides, including the harms of excessive screen time and social media. Some districts are enacting policies to restrict phone use in the classroom, while edtech companies are offering solutions to increase digital wellness and screen value.

Education needs new ways of connecting — approaches to bring people together for in-person wonder and discovery — since meaningful interactions remain at the core of what students need. A poll from Vivi found that 85% of teachers reported active student engagement and strong relationships with students are top factors in academic success, and 72% of educators engage in practices to build meaningful connections.

SXSW EDU Conference & Festival — taking place March 9 to 12 in Austin, Texas — is bringing together the brightest minds in education to explore this theme, among other throughlines in programming. The event is looking into the future of education to find a path toward stronger relationships for more effective learning.

When we asked participants to pick their favorite panels, the most popular tracks were Teaching & Learning and Equity & Belonging. From workshops to keynotes, sessions are aimed at providing practical advice for supporting students and strategies for balancing the benefits of technology with positive in-person relationships.

This is made clear by one of our selections for keynote speaker, Adeel Khan, who will take the stage in March. As the CEO and founder of Magicschool AI, a tool that amplifies educator impact, Khan understands how to balance digital and human connection for the biggest impact. He will share how to harness tools to center teachers and connections.

Featured sessions will focus on social health, to ensure students are forming positive relationships with each other. In one session, How to Support Resilient Youth in an AI World, panelists will dive into a Brookings Institution report to better understand the impact of digital platforms on cognitive, social and emotional development. In another, author Kasey Killam will present research on trends and predictions for the future of community.

Connection isn’t just for students. Teachers benefit from stronger relationships and interactions with peers. Educator burnout can put schools at risk, and a study from Gallup found that teachers experience less burnout when they have mentorship and collaboration.

That is why SXSW EDU is doubling the amount of mentorship sessions in 2026. There are over 120 opportunities to connect in one-on-one sessions and roundtable discussions. More than 30 meet-ups planned for March give attendees an opportunity to talk to others and expand their community. And there are more opportunities to network at pop-up dinners, walking tours and socials.

Bridging different roles and focus areas has always been at the core of the mission for SXSW EDU. It is a chance for educators to come together to learn across the learning life cycle, from Pre-K to continuing education, but also learn across roles and disciplines. Professionals from every walk of life — educators, filmmakers, researchers, policy makers, nonprofit leaders and edtech founders — all attend the conference and festival for a holistic view of education.

On Thursday, March 12, Crossover Day adds even more programming for educators to connect outside of their discipline. Attendees at SXSW EDU and SXSW get together to engage with music, film and innovation and to discover new ways to spark connection in the classroom.

It’s time for education professionals to explore new approaches to connect. SXSW EDU provides a chance to come together and discover what’s next in teaching and learning. Visit sxswedu.com to learn more.