Gizmo High?

...we can't let this happen!!!

by Layne Henn

I recently ran across an article in the Washington Post that spelled out exactly what happens when the technology is purchased for the sake of just having technology. see the articlehere. (you really should read it!)

I've preached it and explained it and tried to instill it in everything I do. STUDENT LEARNING is the main focus of education! STUDENT LEARNING is my #1 priority. TEACHERS are the key!

That is why the word integration is what you see in much of what I write and talk about.

I remember years ago when I took some diversity training called R.E.A.C.H. (some of you may remember this?) Anyway, the thing I remember from that training was "people first language". I have transferred this over to technology. I think when we speak about technology in the classroom, we should use "teaching first language". In other words, instead of saying "The students used Plato in the computer lab today." We should say, "The students worked on comprehension and reading in the content area, and they used Plato on the computers as part of the process."

We can't allow technology to drive curriculum. Learning comes first. Technology can do many things, but it can't make students learn. It can allow teachers to be more efficient, it can open up opportunities for learning that weren't there before. This can happen when it becomes a part of the process that is put in place by teachers. It doesn't just happen because the technology is there. That's what the people in Alexandria are finding out.

Layne