My friend and colleague Shannon, recently posted an article titled Rethinking Ed Techs Purpose in Schools. This article really resonated with me because we often think that technology is going to cure or save education. But it's not. Teachers who teach with the student in mind are what will save education. Teachers who believe that technology can enhance and redefine a learning experience are the key.
AJ Juliani, the author of the article states: "Instead, let’s realize that great learning experiences have always had similar patterns and pedagogical strategies, and technology can be a part of that experience sometimes. If Socrates provided a learning experience that was human, social, meaning-centered, and language-based…chances are it was engaging. The same goes for us today. The difference is that human and social look a bit different in 2018 then they did hundreds of years ago. How can we use technology in ways that support sound practice and strategies for a 2018 world?"
We must first think of what will be authentic and engaging. Then we look for the best method to deliver this learning to our students. Perhaps technology is the right tool to use, but it is only a tool that must be used with purpose and authenticity. "It is how the teacher and students use these tools for learning that truly matters. And when technology is used to redefine a learning experience, the revolution is what the students make, create, and build with their tech, not in the many ways they can consume information." This seems so simple, yet what does this truly mean? What does this look like in all subject areas?
I love how so many of the teachers I work with are seeking the best way to engage students and make their learning authentic. So many of these teachers are stepping outside of their comfort zone in search of new ways to reach students and redefine their own teaching. What does this look like? How will we know if we succeeded in our endeavor? I have no idea, but I am so grateful to be surrounded by colleagues who are grappling with the same questions. Technology isn't going to "save education", but teachers who use technology to create, collaborate, communicate and solve problems are!
Such an important point to remember! The phrase I like is this: Technology doesn't improve teaching; it simply amplifies the type of teaching and the mindset behind it. If we aren't having students collaborate without tech, why would we think it's going to magically happen when we have devices? If we are focused on students sharing ideas and work without tech, those devices just open doors to do it to a wider audience.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to stand up and cheer reading your last sentence. I couldn't agree more. Thanks for sharing.