students, technology teachers?

After watching a video of Henry Jenkins, I decided to share my opinion on it. Henry Jenkins discussed the problems of the education system related to the use (or lack of use) of technology. First, he explains how many teachers make very little use of technology in their classrooms either because they don’t master it or because they think they will lose control of their class if they take it to a computer lab. In such situations, everyone is harmed. Wealthy students, who were born and raised in a highly technological environment, are limited in their learning because all this technological knowledge they have is useless in school and they cannot develop it in school nor use it to acquire more knowledge. Financially limited students are also disadvantaged in these situations; if they have no access to technology other than in school, how will they ever learn how to make use of it and, in doing so, become autonomous learners? Teachers have to connect what students learn outside of school with in-school subjects. Students need to know that what they are learning in school is related to real life. Henry Jenkins therefore suggests that teachers be ready to explore, to use new techniques and allow students participate by showing the class how to use technologies. He hopes for an education program where people build relationships based on shared passions. He encourages online communities for teachers and experts to share and interact. This would allow a combination of skills to new technologies.

As mentioned previously, schools limit kids’ access to digital tools. I agree with Henry Jenkin that it also limits their knowledge. However, I am not sure it would be financially possible for our government to give students constant access to technology.

I am aware of the participation gap, to a certain extent, in my community. This, however, is mostly seen in extreme cases of people (mostly elders) who are technologically illiterate. I do know people who barely know how to turn on a computer, which limits their learning much; they have to ask someone to get google map directions, for instance.

I think the best way to create shared learning opportunities across generations is to put different generations in contact. Elders, who are often wise and have a lot of experience in life, have much to teach to children and teenagers, but they can also learn from them (mostly technological knowledge). Therefore, I think that giving students the opportunity to communicate (through class projects, for example) with people from other generations is an extremely enriching experience.

I am not sure if schools are ready to give up control to kids, families, and communities of learning. I think that many teachers, principals and even entire school boards would feel like they were losing control of the teaching situations.  

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