Over the past three decades, I have provided consulting services to the Round Table on Technology Use and Regulation. In this role, I have had the privilege of serving as an architect for the first public school in Fresno County, California (the “School of Tomorrow”) which was established to provide a high quality elementary education. Over time, the school has added various learning centers and learning environments, and has expanded its focus from a basic preschool education to a college level curriculum.
The school has also used technologies: as a way to deliver knowledge that is relevant in the real world. In the classroom, this technology use is most often implemented through state-of-the-art text books. In addition, the school regularly makes use of technology based lesson plans and audio-visual presentations. The combination of these technologies in the classroom creates a learning environment that engages all of the senses and promotes learning that respects the individual’s effort to participate. I consider this application of technologies in applied research to be evidence of the School’s commitment to technology use.
In terms of technology use: that has been implemented throughout the various activities of the School, the most evident application has been the development of digital textbooks. In most instances, a new or returning student is assigned the responsibility of selecting the textbooks he or she will use in the classroom. In doing so, students gain valuable experience in the selection process and in the process of selecting textbooks themselves. In addition, the digital textbooks are delivered via electronic mail to the students. In this regard, I believe that this application of technology constitutes a form of applied research.
Another example of technology use conducted: by the Kaiser Family Foundation that I find noteworthy relates to the programs developed to improve the learning environment of the rural kindergarten. In this setting, technology is not only used to deliver courses and content electronically, but also to create learning opportunities that are both virtual and in reality. As an example, a combination of video conferencing and personalized teaching are being introduced in this setting. This type of technology is being used to create more in-depth educational experiences that can help children develop cognitive abilities that are beyond their years. Video conferencing is a hands-free solution for a large number of learners who are unable to attend lectures in person.
The third technology use: that I find quite interesting relates to the use of technology as a tool for research. In this setting, a research project that involves the use of computers, databases, audio software, and/or video surveillance equipment is undertaken in order to generate new knowledge or to obtain data that is in need of further analysis. In this regard, technology has met both educational and scientific needs. As I understand it, the research that is conducted on this type of technology usually takes several days, if not more, to complete. In addition, this research often involves a considerable amount of computer time.
These three examples are just some of the many ways: that technology is being used to make learning more interesting and enjoyable. In our educational system today, technology is often used to supplement the traditional methods of teaching and learning. In addition, I believe that technology use is becoming more common in our day-to-day world, as we become a “workforce” and need multiple ways to stay entertained. Technology is truly helping us improve the quality of our lives by allowing us to learn and grow simultaneously.
As children and parents become more familiar with technology, they will be able to embrace it with more open minds and greater confidence.
