Enthus and Skepti (Chapters 2 and 3)

Enthusiast

After reading both chapters and contemplating the role of technology in education, my personal opinion about technology’s role is definitely one of a positive perception. I agree with many of the points posited by enthusiasts. Technology allows for incredible access to a vast amount of information. I believe education is important in a multitude of ways beyond the specific content which is taught. The institutions of education provide for a real-world physical setting in which interactions may be guided and structured towards a desired end. The unparalleled access available through technology is the most incredible quantity ever possible thus far in human history. In the future, it is apparent this information will continue to grow and diversify. Because of this, not only is technology likely to become a key tool in education, but it is essential educators model for students responsible utilization of the resources available.

Another benefit of technology within the educational process is the ability it provides for individuals to connect with and engage material and topics. This personalization of the content and current events makes learning inherent in the process of being engaged. Furthermore, technology allows individuals to express their ideas about topics and to receive feedback from other individuals, potentially the world over. This level of feedback is nearly instantaneous and holds the potential for potential positive change upon a scale nearly unimaginable.

In my mind, access to technology equals access to information which is the key to future education. As discussed, at the same time technology allows for individuals to personalize and focus their educational outcomes, the connectedness created through technology allows for a more balanced and distributed outcomes overall. In essence, I believe technology has the potential to eliminate differences between borders and across oceans. In sharing ideas, communication differences, and attempting to understand, we will slowly develop larger coherent and connected ideas and perspectives. So although perspectives will diversify, they will also become connected and understood through communication. However, the potential technology has is only as beneficial and positive as we make it to be.  In the end, our actions and methods of utilization will determine the outcome. For instance, if we are unprofessional, insulting, close-minded, and refuse to consider the people’s ideas around us (respect), then I believe the benefits of technology will be for naught.  In my opinion, individual learning and understanding of information must first be based upon the perspectives of higher social behaviors taught as a part of the educational process.

Skeptic

Although I believe technology will have a huge impact upon the education process, I still recognize and ponder a few detriments which sober my enthusiasm.  I will attempt to make this next section as short and sweet as possible in order YOU may more effective form your own ideas and hopefully respond. I think it is important to keep in mind the idea of utilizing technology responsibly. If educators emphasize the correct aspects, reinforce positive behavior, and model them consistently, my personal skepticism will be reduced. Sadly though, I fear the thoughtfulness of my fellow human beings who are live today and the impact of their inconsiderate actions upon the future.

First and foremost, I am concerned about access to technology and the vast quantities of information and opportunity which it unlocks. In our society and the world in general, technology is more of a commodity and luxury than an inherent resource. Because of this, I am concerned for the long term availability and distribution not only of technology itself but also of knowledge.

Another long-term concern of mine is related to the idea expressed in Rethinking Education in the Age of Technology, which states, “Technology undermines the need to know things yourself, as long as you know how to find the information and help you are seeking” (pg. 46). This statement is one which honestly elicits a great deal of fear. In what ways would future lives change? Human self-reliance, individual and group, would be eroded and resiliency could be weakened.

Conclusion

After reading these chapters and contemplating technology, I recognize both the positive and potential negative impacts upon current and future societies. For example, right or wrong, harmful or not, the behavior of human beings walking around the earth with their faces down staring at and interacting with a screen while navigating is / does / and WILL have long-term impacts. I guarantee it.

What human interactions and experiences are missed?What human interactions and experiences are altered?What happens to real-world social interactions?What happens to our interaction with the world in which we live?What happens …?

The cultural creations of human beings interact with and influence the biological manifestations of ourselves, and thus these biological manifestations impact our interactions with the world and our cultural creations.  In essence, everything we do matters because it has an impact upon us and our world.

Some might say I’m over thinking this, but I would rather do so than not think about it all.