Which Apps and Software NOT to use

I have to apologise in advance for the text you are about to read. My opinion on this matter has proven to be difficult to structure. Feel free to ask any questions if extra explanation is necessary, and please do not feel offended by anything I say. To give you an idea of what I’m going to rant on about: Lists of apps ¨you should use in education¨. What a load of bullocks.

There is a plethora of lists online, telling you which 55 (REALLY) apps you should use in education. People making these lists seem to have more time on their hands for spending time going through the app-store, than truly working on making education better. Be careful with these lists. An app does not make education better. Same goes for technology in general. Technology can be a great resource, but has very little value on its own. Make your education goals first, and THEN look for ways of reaching those goals. Never adjust your lessons to the technology you wish to use.

People making these lists claim they are doing it to make other teachers more enthusiastic about IT in education (apps, tablets….), yet they are doing quite the opposite. Technophobic teachers are getting lost in the avalanche of stuff they should use in their lessons. Why on earth should I use 55 apps!?

If these people really want to convince people, they should make instructions for the best apps. Which app (just the one) should a teacher use to make his presentations? Which app (just the one) should a teacher use to do quizzes in class? Why just one app? Because if you’re such an expert, you should know which apps are the best, and tell people why.

I have to admit. I too like exploring new apps and web-tools and try to use them in class sometimes. I understand where these people are coming from. Some people simply like trying new things. We have to keep in mind though, that not everyone likes playing around.

With a chest full of toys, what toy should I play with…?