HOW SCHOOLS CAN COPE WITH THE NEW TECHNOLOGIES
This chapter started out with explaining the three different imperatives of technology that are driving technology into the schools. They are, customization, interaction, and learner control. I wasn't really sure what they meant by customization or learner control, so I'll explain so I can come back to my blog later and know what these terms meant. Customization refers to providing people with the knowledge they want when they want it and supporting and guiding people individually as they learn. Learner control refers to putting learners in charge of their own learning whenever possible, so that they feel ownership and can direct their learning wherever their interests take them. It goes on to talk about the standards educators use in the schools today and how they go against the grain of the technological imperatives. I agree that schools need to provide more individual support and choice in what students want to learn. Of course every teacher can work on being more engaging and creating more interaction in their classroom!
The next section talked about standardized testing in the schools and how some teachers are now looking at different forms or assessment. We have talked about that in block so when reading this section it was like review. The next section focused on New Curriculum Designs, which I had my opinions on. It stated this, "students would be encouraged to stick with a particular curriculum for a long time, perhaps several years, while they develop deep skills and understanding." I really agree with this thinking. At such a young age how do children know what areas they want to narrow in on? I don't think we should limit them. Yes, it says they choose, but at this age they need to be exposed to all areas and I don't think they should have to be narrowed down to a specific area. Why limit them when they are full of potential? I really did not agree with this section. Then it went onto to talk about once they become teenagers all the different paths they can take. Do you really feel 16 year olds are wise enough to make that decision. Some yes, but not all. And then talking about them entering college at a age of 15 or 16. I just don't think children at the age need to be exposed to the college scene. They are too young and need more life experiences at this age.
I'm for technology in the classroom, but the last few chapters in this text have really frustrated me. I don't feel we are going to see this large shift and kids will be totally learning on their own (some sections of this book have suggested this!). We'll see how the last two chapters go I guess.
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