Technology has changed the way in which we engage the world and the capabilities of the individual. In Education, it has become more accessible. Academe has left the ivory tower and is accessible in many different formats thanks to the internet and the affordability of devices. It is also raising questions about the cost of education in brick and mortar schools and their effectiveness.
As stated before, technology enables children to conceptualize ideas that previous generation could only dream about. As Pappert in "Mindstorm" talks about dissociative learning I would argue that was probably necessary in a former era. One to build on abstract ideas in the form of a step action drill in hopes of creating critical thinkers that could conceptualize mathematics into real tangible projects and ideas. It was probably also pragmatic in terms of cost, as a school could not be filled with cogs and pulleys as he speaks of spurred his love of mathematics. In 2015, a child can perform mathematics without much foundation in math by utilizing a computer which can show a visual representation of complicated math concepts. Essentially, it simplifies the complexities in math. As Pappert argues, "mathophobia" exists because there is little real world application in the dissociative style of teaching math and sciences.
Technology misses the mark in the sense there is a generational gap in how society responds to and understands the utility of Information Technology. Society made a transition from computers as a novelty item to an integral part of day to day interaction. From communicating with people to banking to travel. Children are born today understanding the virtuality as the norm. They comprehend a world of visualizing and understanding images and ideas that aren't really there. We could probably be more integrated with technology but are bound by old customs and traditions.
No comments:
Post a Comment