My parents just about remember writing in chalk, on blackboards. Then along came the pencil and paper and revolutionised learning. Well not really. It just let teachers and students do what they had always done, but better, faster, and more conveniently.
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| https://www.flickr.com/photos/thecampbells/3005650135 |
So how do we make sure that technology doesn't become another story of the pencil and paper, and just make things better, faster and more convenient?
To me it seems obvious. And yet so often I see technology employed to do pretty much exactly the same things as have always been done in class, but on a screen. And sometimes, even the 'electronic worksheet' makes an appearance, a more depressing use of technology I can't imagine.
I think, a clear indicator of how effectively you will use technology to support learning is how you facilitate learning without technology? Do you seek out imaginative methods of supporting learning? Do students have autonomy in your class, do they understand the bigger picture of what they are learning? Do your students look forward to coming to your class and enjoy the challenges of learning with you?
If these things are not happening at all in your current teaching and learning, then dumping a bunch of technology in your class is mainly going to be a large waste of everyone's time and money.
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| http://pr0tean.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/transformational-technology-simple.html |
If you don't want to waste time and money, have a read of this explanation of the SAMMS acronym. Match it up with the commonly referenced SAMR model of transforming learning with technology. Then reflect carefully on your practice. It's too important an opportunity to let your students down on.
