Are we using technology to teach old things in new ways? Or using it to teach better things in better ways?

As educators, we need to reflect on whether we are being dominated in our teaching by the crowded curriculum and trying to fit everything in. Are we teaching for the world we grew up in, the past, or for the world our students are going into, the future. Ask our students for their technology perspectives on using technology; we will be amazed.

Not one of us today would be prepared to be operated on with 50 year old medical

technologies and procedures in 1960’s hospitals, drive 50 year old cars on a daily basis, fly regularly in 50 year old planes, cut our lawns by hand or follow the diets of our great grand parents etc. Why then should our students be taught old things in old ways; the answer is simple, they shouldn’t.

In our world we may use technology to present information in various multimedia mediums, electronically keep records, put curriculum online and communicate through texting, mobiles and emails. But isn’t all of this just doing old things in new ways?

It’s a great start, but now we have to push the boundaries to discover what technology can offer to teach better things in better ways. Ask our students how we can use blogs, podcasts, iPods, iPhones and chatrooms in their learning world.

How many of us incorporate authoritative pedagogies and research into our learning and teaching?

- Dimensions of Learning (Marzano)

- Habits of the Mind (Costa & Kellick)

- Multiple Intelligences (Gardner)

- Learning Styles

- Emotional Intelligence (Goleman)

- Blooms Taxonomy

They enable us to grow with our students and role model lifelong learning.

Time spent investigating technology’s innovative possibilities will benefit engagement and relevance in our classrooms for our students.

Following are reflections from Year 8 students on what makes a good teacher:

TOP 15 RESPONSES FOR YEAR 8

1. Don’t blame students for something they didn’t do; is kind

2. Don’t give lunchtime detentions to the whole class if its just a few students

3. Having fun in class

4. Doing something when we are bullied

5. Listens to what we say

6. Have free time when finished all work

7. If we did something wrong show us what we did wrong

8. Help us enjoy school activities

9. Don’t give too much homework or assignments

10. Work should be explained properly

11. Someone that is fair and only punishes the student who is disruptive, not the whole class

12. Makes work a game eg. Maths times tables

13. An enthusiastic teacher

14. Help us out if we have problems or are stuck with something

15. Making lots of jokes and making us happy

“ The three words of success – Dare, Care, Share” Anon