The Winds of Change

As I read Tom Branch's article, I found myself wondering if and how I have changed as an educator. I am not that old (37), but I do remember getting color overheads for my chemistry class and being utterly thrilled! Technology advances faster than ever, so how do we keep up?

We can't count on the education system to keep up. The levels of bureaucracy that changes must go through make it next to impossible to make any major changes quickly. We will likely always be behind as far as resources are concerned. Does that mean we should just forget it then? Absolutely not.

We can use what we have to promote higher-order thinking skills and deeper, more meaningful learning. I have tried many technology-based lessons such as webquests, blogs, PowerPoint presentations, etc. Admittedly, some fail desperately but those that are successful are empowering to the students and me.

I don't think that the teaching profession should be completely overhauled and converted to a classroom where all students have a computer and learn independently. Sometimes they need a teacher, whether it is for a demonstration or a better way of explaining things. Good teachers know how to get through to learners. Technology should be used to enhance learning but traditional teaching methods still have their place - as they have for millennia.