Rethinking Education in the Age of Technology: Chapter 7

WHAT MAY BE LOST & WHAT MAY BE GAINED


I felt that there were many more examples and facts of what would be lost than what would be gained. The question is though if what will be gained will outweigh all the losses? I'm not entirely sure of my answer to that question. This chapter talks about if a technology revolution does occur what the losses will be, but also the gains of the revolution. Let's start with what would be lost (I think a lot).  Social cohesion will be lost.  When we group ourselves in the home we are limiting our cultural experience and interactions from those who have a different culture from our own.  Public schools allow for diversity to abundant and the lessons that come with it irreplaceable. The second problem is of equity of access to learning. Universal schooling allows for more equal opportunities and mainstreaming for all! If people leave the schools than there is a great possibility that minorities and those in poverty will suffer.  They will not have the money and resources at home like they are offered with at school.  Equity is very important because everyone deserves an education no matter what their background. There is also the potential of decline in the liberal arts. When people/children are allowed to decide what they learn will they really be broadening their education. Yes, they can focus on what they love, but what about being balanced and knowledgeable in the a broader light? I think we will see more narrow minds and students won't be extending their horizons like they would be in a universal school setting. Also, another loss would people being more likely to become isolated. If they are at home getting an education they will be missing out on the social and interaction lessons they need to survive! There could be a loss of social skills (that is a HUGE risk). I thought it was very interesting to find that research has found spending time on the Internet has shown decreases in talking among family members, reduction in the number of friends once had, and increases in depression and loneliness.


Now let's look at what will be gained.  The huge aspect that people will be able to choose material that interest them which we believe will have the affect that learning will be more engaging. They will be more excited to learn about areas that interest them and what they hope to be in the future (careers).  Computers can customize education to the particular needs and abilities of individual learners. The support will be superb because they will get just enough help and will be challenged. Another obvious gain is that knowledge/information will be accessible anytime, anywhere, and through the web. Also there will be less competition in schools. Students won't be able to compare themselves to others and feel failure when their work is not as outstanding. 


I agree that technology should be more involved in schools, but I don't think our world should ever leave the universal school system.  School is important and crucial. Just my opinion I guess though.  I really found this chapter interesting.