EduTechie.com

I just read a great post from Neil Hokanson’s Instructional Technology blog.  He posts the following (originally from Rae Niles).

Let’s have a little competition at school and get ready for the
future. I will use a laptop and you will use paper and pencil. Are you
ready…?

I will access up-to-date information – you have a textbook that is 5 years old.
I will immediately know when I misspell a word – you have to wait until it’s graded.
I will learn how to care for technology by using it – you will read about it.
I will see math problems in 3D – you will do the odd problems.
I will create artwork and poetry and share it with the world – you will share yours with the class.
I will have 24/7 access – you have the entire class period.
I will access the most dynamic information – yours will be printed and photocopied.
I will communicate with leaders and experts using email – you will wait for Friday’s speaker.
I will select my learning style – you will use the teacher’s favorite learning style.
I will collaborate with my peers from around the world – you will collaborate with peers in your classroom.
I will take my learning as far as I want – you must wait for the rest of the class.

The cost of a laptop per year? – $250
The cost of teacher and student training? – Expensive
The cost of well educated US citizens and workforce? – Priceless

If this doesn’t sum up instructional technology and our goal I don’t know what does! 

I just had a conversation with someone that was complaining about a problem her computer was having opening up a link to her electronic plane ticket.  She said something to the effect of “that is the problem with technology.”  We chatted a little more and I gently reminded her that computers also make it possible to even book a ticket online when ever we want, comparing prices across the world instantly, and printing ticket’s at home.  She laughed as she realized her fallacy. 

Yes, there are technical problems with so much of what we do.  There are things we have to work through every day, but look at the way education has changed and WILL continue to change!  This change only happens because we persist, because there are those that have the courage to be on the edge keep trying till it works.

Today I am just so grateful for those who are willing to try new things.  These are the ones that have, and always will change the world.  For the most part, these are the ones reading this blog entry. 

To each of you, thank you!  Keep up the good work!  Remember, the reward is PRICELESS… across the world!