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Great question, great comments. Consensus seems to be that computers are tools and can be helpful if the learning model is right. Specifically, computers can al
by krsmith35 9y ago
Great question, great comments. Consensus seems to be that computers are tools and can be helpful if the learning model is right. Specifically, computers can allow for mastery (see Sal Khan on TED) and personalization (see Silicon Valley schools). I think the follow up question is: will the current system evolve to a 21st-century model, where computers can be effectively utilized?
(My answer is no, here's my proposal for a better model: https://medium.com/@prendalearn/nanoschool-a-new-take-on-education-8610a46cb0ac https://medium.com/@prendalearn/nanoschool-a-new-take-on-edu...)
- bluGill 9y agoInteresting idea. However your model - like all interest based learning models - fails because learning is hard. How will you force kids to memorize their multiplication tables, their spelling lists... These are things that are hard to do and interesting. (note once you get good things like spelling bees are fun, but until you are good it is not fun so few kids will cross that gap)
- krsmith35 9y agoI agree, what if people decide not to learn. My two answers are 1) they wouldn't learn in a compulsory model anyway, not really (https://medium.com/@prendalearn/teaching-is-impossible-what-to-do-instead-31b30924511d); https://medium.com/@prendalearn/teaching-is-impossible-what-... and 2) gamification can go a long way. Actually testing this next week with a summer camp where we bought a bunch of cool, fun toys and the kids can play all day once they get their work done (x% mastered on Khan Academy, y pages read, z words written). I'm making all this up - no academic background.