Teaching what we don’t know
I cried today when I watched these videos again. I’m not real sure why. Maybe I feel overwhelmed. One of my biggest concerns is the digital divide. In these videos it looks like everyone knows more about technology than I do but I know that’s not true for all my students. If we really want to teach students using all these technological tools we need money. Each student needs to have ready access to a computer. We all know that’s just not the case. How do we teach students who don’t have the resources available to them when we don’t have the resources either? Training and resources for all teachers and students is essential but I don’t see that happening any time soon, especially in the current economy.
November 19th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Two of my favourite videos with very powerful messages – I think every teacher should watch these – you wouldn’t be the only one with tears.
I think you make a very valid point about lack of resources, we have only two computers in the library one of which is for circulation and it can be very frustrating. But I’ve learned something very important about kids learning from another video (with the potential to choke up dedicated teachers too =)
http://vodpod.com/watch/970298-sugata-mitra-shows-how-kids-teach-themselves?pod=cathyinoz
It changed the way I looked at that little clump of students standing behind someone on the computer. They’re not actively operating it but they are learning. Now I leave them be.
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November 19th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Hmmm, my vodpod links playing up.
I’ve tracked back and found the direct link to that video –
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/sugata_mitra_shows_how_kids_teach_themselves.html
Enjoy!
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