The administrators in the district where I teach are having a bit of a debate over how much money should be spent on technology. Today, I was sent a link to an article in the Washington Post that details some problems that some teachers are encountering now that their districts are so focused on integrating technology with the curriculum. It brought to mind a favorite history teacher at our middle school. Students love this teacher. They love his lectures because he is a master storyteller. Listening to this teacher transports students to Colonial America. While his teaching tools do not include anything "techy" beyond a filmstrip projector and slide projector, he is a very effective teacher.
This article contradicts some of the ideas we have already shared on this blog. Many of us have noted how the use of technology has improved the learning experience for students. I do believe that teaching is an art and that teachers need to use instructional methods that they feel comfortable using. Finding the balance between the human and machine components of teaching is important.
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6 comments:
That's exactly why I'm taking an Instruction class and this one at the same time (and a YA lit class, which helps with the storytelling & teen development). :)
I feel sorry for the kids in the school in the Washington Post article!
Teaching is such a combination of methods, and part of the school experience is knowing that you are being seen and heard. Class time goes by so quickly, that I can imagine how much time is taken just uploading, etc. as the article mentions.
In my opinion, the best teachers know that they are on a stage. It is their job to captivate, motivate and communicate.
(the 3 -ates?)
I think there needs to be some reform in the courses that teachers take I would recommend to any teacher to take a course in "Selling" (Dale Carnegie style) because it is all about letting your audience know that they exist, that their input matters. Eye contact with students is key.
Speaking and Presentation: why was I only required to take one Speaking course for ed degree? There is so much to learn about body language, voice inflections, drama.
Too many teachers will take the opportunity to "hide" behind their computer if used as in the article.
Way back in the 70's when I was a student, my absolute best teacher (Language and Writing) pushed us to produce work via film, artwork, drama- whatever was the best conduit for the individual. He didnt accept junk and let us know that we could do better. We also got to know eachother as a group much better which enhanced our learning.
I love technology, however, it is not a replacement for actual teaching/ facilitating. We all know that in a few years, the big push will be back to the "Human Factor". (sigh) as Mom always says- "Everything in Moderation", and this applies to how we teach, too.
Further to my post about reforming teacher training, rather than relying completely on new technologies in order to maximize student learning- This great article about the Finn’s and their successful approach to having the best teachers in schools hits the nail on the head.
The article states that in Finland there are ”.. three key elements for its success, laid out in the McKinsey report .. (1) Get the best teachers; (2) Get the best out of teachers; and (3) Intervene when pupils start to lag behind.” http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2008/02/20/24bassett.h27.html?tmp=91808443 Education Education Week: What the Finns know Shouldn’t Surprise Us
It’s a great article relating how being in the Teaching profession there is prestigious, and the training is more specific. Those of us focusing on Media are on the right track by specializing. Enjoy!
Not allowed to use overheads. Boy they've gone a little too far. Talk about throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Actually, this school sounds exciting to me but I'm a gizmo junkie. I would NOT however, like it very much if after twenty years of using Smart board the administration forced me to switch to a virtual reality headset. If it ain't broke...
Nell
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