WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN
This chapter starts out by using a really powerful quote (at least I thought so). "If we adjust our lenses accordingly, then we will begin to see something remarkable: The edges will reshape and eventually transform the core." In order for these "edges" to reform the core of schooling we have to become experienced and intelligent of the new learning technologies. I thought this quote was powerful because it's so true that for in order for the core of schools to change we first have to change how we feel about technology. Even if we aren't all about technology and enthusiastic about it we at least need to understand the possibilities of the new technologies if we want to teach our future generations. It's just a fact. They make a good point in this chapter how for the first time in history, children are more comfortable, knowledgable, adn literate than their parents about an innovation central to society: technology. I feel that this is very true, because everyone I know is much more advanced on computers, thier cell phones and pretty much anything technologic than their parents. My mom doesn't even know how to open the internet no joke. My dad at least is trying to stay up to date with the changes. He just got a facebook, kind of weird, but I'm happy he's trying to stay in touch with me by communicating the way I like and know best. Him and I have decided that my mom is just afraid of change. She's done at home daycare her whole life and just got her license to be a CNA. We are afraid her not knowing how to use a computer is going to hold her back from getting a job. Knowing how to use technology is pretty much a requirement in the work field today. Anyways back to the chapter :) This chapter offers suggestions for parents and teachers on how to bridge the considerable generation gap and integrate new learning technologies into existing practices.
So the first section of this chapter focuses on what kids are learning from technology, which I found very interesting. It also focuses on how parents can connect more with their children by understanding technology and being interested in their children's passion about technology devices. It went on to say that the technology gap starts at home. We as teachers (and someday parents) need to appreciate the range of new skills our students (children) learn from these new technologies. We'll start with the video games. I always thought video games were not a good source of time, probable because you always hear parents and girlfriends bashing about the things. But in reality children who play video games develop sophisticated problem-solving and communication skills. I never knew there were benefits of video gaming, but I think I have a new attitude towards it now. We really need to pursue our children/students to join online communities that share a similar interest of our child. This can develop their research skills and also because of the internet kids can be exposed to many more kids their own age who share similar passions, which they might not be able to find locally.
The second section focused on how technology can change kids social lives and learning. It started out with talking about pop culture and how that wouldn't be possible if not for universal schooling. In the 1960's many kids went to school only to socialize rather than to get an education (this probable still holds true for many kids today) and that is what created the pop culture explosion! Even today peer culture has become a powerful economic engine. Interesting section, not too clear what the point was (to me at least), but I enjoyed it.
The last section ties it all together: Where does this leave us? We suspect that schools will be dragged reluctantly into a new technologically rich education system. How could they not? After reading the entirety of this book it seems that at some point technology will be at the core of the school. However, I still believe we need the universal school system. I just don't buy children will learn on their own, some maybe, but not all. Many kids need guidance and I don't think a computer is going to provide that. We will see though. Should be an interesting next 50 years in the education world! ;)
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