These days there is an onslaught of technology on the modern classroom. Teachers, administrators, parents, and students alike are being told that technology is the whetstone with which we can all sharpen our education system. Technology can open doors, expand minds, and change the world.
That may be true, but it's not the panacea that it's been made out to be. As much innovation as the iPad may bring to the classroom, it's not going to replace a teacher anytime soon. In fact, the influx of technology like iPads means there is a greater need for teachers. We need teachers who are part early adopter, part integrator, and part mad scientist. The modern teacher is willing to take chances and able to figure out just not how technology works, but how it works for each student, and where its use is most appropriate.A computer can never do all these.
I too believe that personalized tech-infused learning is the future of education. However, There is a problem.It's not about the technology. Rather, the sleek and ever more powerful devices that are coming down the pipeline are simply one part of a teacher's toolkit. The technology is not the lesson, it is there to enhance the lesson. Our classrooms are changing, and without a doubt they will look quite different in five or ten years than they do today. New technologies are being developed quickly, and with so many different trends taking hold, it is yet to be seen what will be shaken out and what will stick. BUT One thing we feel strongly about: teachers aren't going anywhere. Whatever word you choose - teacher, tutor, preceptor, or something else - the role a teacher plays in the classroom is huge. Everyone knows this on a personal level, and can identify a teacher or mentor who has had influence on us or changed our trajectories in a positive way.
They encourage students when they struggle, and inspire them to set and reach for their goals. They are role models, leading by example and giving direction when necessary. A computer can give information, but a teacher can lend a hand, or an ear, and discern what's necessary for a student to succeed, and to want to succeed.
A computer is also unable to meet the emotional needs of the students. While teache can relate to their her students by their past experience as they too are humans. Teacher can solve a child's problem but of course computer can't solve a child's problem.
A computer cannot keep order in a classroom so what would keep the students behaving? They would only misbehave more when someone isn't there to tell them that what they are doing is wrong!
So yes, technology is going to play a critical role in the future of education. But not as big a role as that of a teacher.
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