I have a vivid imagination. Years ago there was a 'teach you to type' computer programme called Miss Myrtle or some similar name designed to assist persons who did not know how to type. I am still a one finger specialist whose speed has been increased by e mailing and creating documents for my students. So this ICT course has got me thinking, and I have a wild imagination (within the confines of decency, I am quick to add). If years ago this was available, what's the deal now? Will fiture students be able to learn in cyberspace in totality so that we flesh and blood teachers will no longer be required in large numbers at least?
If that is so then more than ever we need to get with the program. Literally. As an educator, a parent, a member of the society, I am going to learn as much as I can about this present Technology. After all if they do not need the teacher, they will need program designers and evaluators for assessment etc. I intend to be invaluable and not be made redundant by this movement occurring in leaps and bounds. Hey, I did tell you that I have a wild imagination.
In the interim, I promise that I will not procastinate, I will accept the training and design my instruction accordingly. And if what I imagined comes to pass then I will be ready for it. As the paradigm continues to shift so will I.
Blog on!
Very interesting thought! Scary but interesting!
ReplyDeleteI never thought of ‘flesh and blood’ teachers, becoming obsolete. But it is something to think about.
Let me take it a step further:
Do we even need to meet in classrooms? How about everyone stay at home and we meet in virtual classrooms, from the comfort of our homes.
Sounds far-fetched? But fifty years ago, a lot of the things we see now, then, were very questionable.
Already, tertiary level classes are completed, entirely on-line. You can get anything from a certificate to a doctorate without stepping into a classroom. The question therefore is not if, but when it would happen.
I sincerely hope though, that the powers that be recognize:
The importance of social, (scratch that) face to face interaction.
The power of a touch, a smile, a hug.
The benefits of structured, physical play.
And know that despite, the many, many advantages of the technology we have now, until we reach a certain age we need ‘flesh and blood’ teachers.
OH YES!!!. That typing tutorial, was Mavis Beacon.
Lady Blog, I never thought of us becoming obsolete, before reading your blog I believed, that was in reference to machines but now you have me thinking.It is interesting to know that teachers are not needed as before to interact with their students, as we are seeing today in terms of online classes. This is only for tertiary education. I cannot see it happening with our students, they still need the face to face contact, collaboration with their peers and teachers. They are not that disciplined to be on their own. Maybe in the next fifty years but so much positive values and skills would be lost. Can one imagine the kind of students then? I do not think I want to be around.
ReplyDelete