None of us will deny that our society in all aspects is experiencing an evolution as a result of technology-enhanced revolutions. Literally, everything we do has been changed in some way by technology, from the refrigerator that sends me updated grocery lists to my mobile device to the app that reminds me that I have recorded television shows to watch.
So, WHY do we spend so much time and money in education attempting to provide our students with the latest devices when the latest device will be available tomorrow? Is the device the most important element or the activity we are completing with the device? We have spent billions of dollars on one to one programs in schools attempting to provide every student in our state and in our country with a device? We have all experienced the transition from Gateway to Dell and more. We spend countless days debating PC or Mac, Tablet or iPad? We are reaching the 20-year mark with personal devices and the short answer is no. The type of device should not matter! IT JUST DOESN'T MATTER! Thank you, Bill Murray! Like our coffee, we want a device that is personal and personalized. We want to select our screensaver and choose the order and type of apps we download. Like our cars, we want to choose economy, compact, or luxury; so, the color, size, capacity, performance, and design of our device matters. Our students are the third generation attempting to "Have It Their Way!" Ultimately, we should stop focusing on the acquisition of devices and make access and acquisition of skills our primary concerns. Our programs should provide basic, low-cost devices when they are needed by students and stronger access through BYOD programs. Example of a low-cost device seen at FETC.Device agnostic, i.e. I can use this app on any device. Our curriculum should use apps that are device-agnostic or students should be given the ability to choose between apps when acquiring new skills or completing assignments. We must close the old school... And open the new school. Disclaimer: Photos are borrowed under Creative Commons.
The mention of any product in this blog is NOT a product endorsement and no monetary benefits were received in the mentioning of any product or program.
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Vandy
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