Skip to main content

Why do EdTech People React Strongly to Skepticism?

Why do EdTech People React Strongly to Skepticism?

http://www.learningspy.co.uk/technology/why-do-edtech-folk-hate-to-be-questioned/

This is an interesting blog article that hits home with me personally. I tend to react to criticism fairly. when I agree with the criticism being made. However, in the EdTech field, I do tend to react strongly against those who are skeptics.

I agree that technology is not "THE" answer that solves all of the problems in Education, in fact it creates a huge issue with money, since most technology is not inexpensive. Technology does have the potential to create richer and deeper learning experiences across a vast array of ability levels and personalities. To make technology work, it takes a great teacher to utilize technology in effective and appropriate ways.

For those that say "Technology" is fine for others, but it has no place in "my" classroom, I respectfully disagree. One of my favorite definitions of technology is any device designed to enhance human performance. Therefore, Education Technology will enhance learning and pedagogy practices that are already in place in the classroom.

This author points out how his skepticism of ed-tech has been met with some fiery backlash from some ed-tech professionals. I agree with the points the author makes about how to be careful of who is funding the believes of these "certified" professionals. Of course, an Apple certified technology coach will prefer Apple technology over others. I am Google Certified because Google's apps work on almost everyone's devices, are inexpensive, and create rich learning experiences if used properly. However, I do use tools beyond a single brand.

The Tool Does not Matter Anymore

It all comes down to a basic fact. The tool has little to do with how a student is learning. Apple, Microsoft, Android, Google... it does not matter which tool you use. What matters is how the tool can be used in your classroom to benefit the learning process of your students. When it comes down to it, there is almost no difference in which device you use. Most devices now, can do almost all of the same things.

As a Teacher
I can enter my LMS (such as Google Classroom) on my iPad, grade papers on my MacBook, enter grades on my Windows PC, and post grades online from my Chromebook, and take attendance on my Phone. You can swap these devices around and they all still work for each.

As a Student
I can enter my LMS (such as Google Classroom) on my iPad, submit assignments on my MacBook, research on my Windows PC, and view grades online from my Chromebook, and collaborate/chat/video chat/email on my Phone. You can swap these devices around and they all still work for each.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

8 Google Sheets Add-ons Teachers Need!

Google sheets is a very powerful, although a bit basic when compared with the industry standard Microsoft Excel. Google Sheets Add-ons add some of the advanced features of other spreadsheet programs into Sheets. These add-ons have allowed me to completely move away from Excel for all data entry. We ...selected for you the 8 most popular applications there. Using these add-ons will enable you to: Create graphs and forms and write complex math in your sheets Create and modify a planning schedule for project management in a spreadsheet; easily scaffold, manage and assess students projects in Google Drive ...see the article below for more http://www.educatorstechnology.com/2017/07/8-google-sheets-add-ons-every-teacher.html

3 Tips for Classroom Discussion Backchannels: Class Tech Tips

A backchannel is a space where students can post questions, respond to prompts and participate in a discussion without raising their hand. You might set up a backchannel for students using the free tool Today’s Meet or have older students set up a Twitter account and tweet using a shared hashtag for a virtual class discussion. If you haven’t used backchannels before you may want to check out this post for a quick overview. So what does this have to do with BrainPOP? BrainPOP is a favorite resource for helping students dive into a range of topics. Read more on the link below. http://www.techlearning.com/blogentry/12230

What Comes First, Education or Technology?

http://www.ictineducation.org/home-page/2016/2/24/what-comes-first-education-or-technology This is a good article about putting education technology in perspective. "What has happened is that the existence of the technology has enabled you to reconsider some of your teaching methods." Technology has sparked a critical change in education. When integrating technology in education, for the most part of the 20th century, the focus was on adding technology to already existing teaching practices. “I want to get people to start from the notion that there are educational things that they want to do, or educational processes that they would like to engage with, and then - and only then - talk about the technology.”— The death of the digital native... Technology is inspiring us to change what we are doing in our classrooms and how students are learning. Here is an example of how technology can inspire a change in teaching practice: 1990s Tech Example: VCR usa