We've all heard the phrase, "Don't Knock It Until You Try It," and I'm wondering why many aren't putting this phrase into action when it comes to technology and schools.
Recently I've read and heard a number of tech critiques by people who rarely, if ever, use tech. Without hard data, reference to research articles or personal experience, they warn of the dangers inherent in tech use when it comes to teaching children well.
Yes, I'm a tech aficionado. I continue to be amazed and inspired by the potential tech holds for better lives, problem solving and learning, yet I also believe that balance and guidance are important when it comes to optimal tech integration into education. And when that guidance is provided by experienced tech users, children are directed well.
Tech integration into schools requires experience and dynamic conversation with diverse voices. The worst way to integrate tech is to not integrate it or to continue to criticize and limit use without dynamic discussion, trial and experience.
In just a few years, this discussion will seem remote because by that time tech will be seen as one important, integrated tool in all aspects of life, and the discussions by all will be about which tech tools are the best tech tools and how do we integrate those tools into our overall efforts to teach children well. I'm even surprised that teachers and schools have to continue to advocate for technology in this day and age.
