Preparing Students with 21st Century Skills
People, not Laptops
In a recent online publication titled "Technology in Education Integration: People not Laptops," written by Ron Canuel who is the Director General of Eastern Townships School Board in Quebec, Canada, the focus is on the teachers and students, and not the technology. Bravo!!
Too often those involved with education in whatever role they may be get "stuck" on the technology. I want to podcast. I want to make a video. We need more of whatever laptop, tech gadget, or other kind of tech hardware is in the forefront of their minds at that time. I always go back to what is being done with the students and the teachers to enhance the teaching and learning. How is the technology tied to the curricular goals? It is important that we bring the conversations back to what we are trying to accomplish. At times, this is a conversation that surprises my teachers. They are often ready to start the conversation with the technology. I like to start the conversation with what are we trying to achieve...what essential understandings, challenges, objectives, etc. are we trying to "meet?" The excellent description of the "Four Phases of Deployment and Characteristics" that is given in this article is one that those who have been involved in laptop schools for several years will absolutely recognize! Canuel's insight into that in addition to the other practical information about which he writes provide great information in a very practical, yet experienced way.
So, add your thoughts here about the stages of adaptation, assimilation, deployment, etc. What do YOU do to assure a successful integration plan for laptops? And, how do YOU make sure it truly is about teaching and learning....about the people and not the laptops?
Too often those involved with education in whatever role they may be get "stuck" on the technology. I want to podcast. I want to make a video. We need more of whatever laptop, tech gadget, or other kind of tech hardware is in the forefront of their minds at that time. I always go back to what is being done with the students and the teachers to enhance the teaching and learning. How is the technology tied to the curricular goals? It is important that we bring the conversations back to what we are trying to accomplish. At times, this is a conversation that surprises my teachers. They are often ready to start the conversation with the technology. I like to start the conversation with what are we trying to achieve...what essential understandings, challenges, objectives, etc. are we trying to "meet?" The excellent description of the "Four Phases of Deployment and Characteristics" that is given in this article is one that those who have been involved in laptop schools for several years will absolutely recognize! Canuel's insight into that in addition to the other practical information about which he writes provide great information in a very practical, yet experienced way.So, add your thoughts here about the stages of adaptation, assimilation, deployment, etc. What do YOU do to assure a successful integration plan for laptops? And, how do YOU make sure it truly is about teaching and learning....about the people and not the laptops?
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