Prompt: A clear lesson from history is that it’s easy to follow fads and have unrealistic expectations about a new technology’s potential, leading to a backlash when the research findings are disappointing. What current trends might be good candidates for a backlash today? What could be done to make a backlash less likely or severe?
I would like to address is a point made by Raj Dhingra in his Ted Talk Can Technology Change Education? Yes! He poses the idea/myth that we have adequate technology in schools. My background is mainly in teaching middle school in 1:1 schools (with some years of high school mixed in, also 1:1). I see 1:1 iPads and other 1:1 device programs as a current fad in many schools currently that is a mixture of both educational technology and a pathway toward the introduction of eLearning in the classroom. From my years of experience helping to pilot and implement two different 1:1 programs, develop training, coach other teachers and develop curriculum of my own I am very familiar with the idea of having unrealistic expectations about the potential of this technology.
I think this is a prime candidate for backlash in some schools where not implemented properly. With the right teachers, the right administration and dedication I think 1:1 programs can accelerate and enhance learning, create opportunities for flipped classrooms and allow for more authentic learning opportunities. The key words are implemented properly. There were many factors that undermined the 1:1 program at my last school.
- Many students were unable to charge their devices at home due to lack of electricity and charging at school was not established
- The school did not provide chargers and families were expected to buy them which was not possible for many families
- Teachers were given limited training (often provided by me – in my spare time) on how to utilize iPads effectively for instruction
- Teachers were expected to utilize iPads in their instruction as part of their evaluations but often didn’t and evaluation differed depending on evaluator
In order to avoid backlash schools have to be 100% committed when implementing technology. They have to ensure all students can access the technology, ensure proper training and follow through.