The author is speaking both of students who use technology well and those who do not. It is important not to get so completely swept away by current technology that we forget that there may be students who struggle with technology. The author also references students who "don't fit the regular academic mold" as an example of how technology is useful. But just like there are students that struggle with standard academic work and are not as successful with it; there will be some students that struggle with technology and not be as successful as if they were doing a more traditional assignment. It is always important to have a balance of traditional and modern assignments available so that all students can be successful. Although technology is crucial; it is important to know how to write instead of type, or read instead of scroll.
The purpose of teaching is not strictly to push the newest technology in the classroom but to help our students become successful adults. If we can accomplish that goal without making students feel inadequate, we have become successful as teachers.
Related Resources:
Citations:
1. Ohler, J. (2005). The world of digital storytelling. Educational Leadership, Retrieved from http://www.jasonohler.com/pdfs/digitalStorytellingArticle1-2006.pdf
Great! Suggestion I never though of Ohler's paper in this way. Yes, both skills are great to have.
ReplyDeleteA balance is important! But I don't think that was Ohler's point. His point is that technology does not automatically lead to great storytelling. Students still need to be taught the art of storytelling to make good digital stories.
ReplyDeleteI love your quote choice. That says a lot. I agree that there needs to be a balance, because just like you said there will be children that struggle with technology as some do with traditional class work. Even though there will be children that struggle its not as reason to not teach technology in the class room, we might need to use different strategies to teach different kids.
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