"We
cannot allow these implements of destruction into our schools! Students
will deface property, engage in unsavory activities and generally create
chaos!" This opinion was expressed about pencils in the early 1900's. Imagine school today without pencils and pens. The tool once
thought to be a problem is now a key part of learning. I see the same
thing happening with digital technology. Computers, phones and mobile
devices are rapidly changing not only the way we teach but how students learn.
No. We cannot get rid of paper and pencils but we do need to make room
for activities that will help our students master the increasing demands for
rapid problem identification, solving and analysis many careers demand today. Yes. We have new "pencils" and we will have to change but what
else is new?
Think of it this way. How would you like to go to a dentist who refuses
to use modern techniques because what he or she learned in the 1960’s still
works? Hanging on to the past is a great
idea for classic cars and rock but not for education. Let's get together and reflect on failures and successes with new methods and tools. Afterall, many of the things we do now will be looked on as ancient and silly...in the very near future!
