Let’s explore the thoughts included in this post.
As I Considered this post, some phrases grabbed my attention: “… eases the way of education…”, “… teachers impart education with the use of graphics…”, “… trained teachers teach students to touch the skies…”, and “… teachers must have access to adequate and quality information…” being four I jotted down.
Even with the availability of technology, these phrases to me suggest pretty much the same teacher directed / controlled education that I believe very much UNDERUTILIZES the technology. Though it was never suggested specifically, it brings to mind technology making switching from conventional textbooks to digital e-textbooks as an ‘advantage’ of technology. Yes, it does enable MOOCs and online courses — but to me, that’s very much an underutilization of technology!!!
What would I suggest is a much more impactful use of technology? WHETHER FOR A CLASSROOM OR AN ONLINE OR A BLENDED COURSE, give the learners control of their learning!!! Aligned with appropriate standards of course, let them choose the topics for investigation and learning. The learners gather the information — GOOD AND BAD; because that’s what is always going to be found throughout social media!!! Throw out any form of textbooks — conventional and digital. Facilitate the development of the skills of Effective Learning (cooperating, questioning, gathering, understanding, assessing, organizing, summarizing, using, …) and have the learners address their chosen topics. Expect their use of the wide options for delivery of their efforts that technology enables — ‘PRESENTING’ their learning for dialogue, feedback, reflection, and revision. AND, IF I WERE REALLY DECIDING, I go further to eliminate homework, exams, and grading; and I’d greatly expand student-controlled timelines (within a framework that’s consistent with appropriate standards)!!! Course grades would be based upon those presentations and individual e-portfolios documenting evidence of learning.
Now THAT is the effective integration of technology to optimize each student’s Effective Learning!!!!
