Technology as Tools
In my school, when teachers talk about technology, they limit the conversation to computers, ipads, or the Internet. They do not view it as one more tool, among many tools, like a pencil or a notebook (tools we regularly give students free access to). Rather, technology seems set apart from all other tools available to our kids. Currently, I find teachers generally want to limit the use of these newer technologies, especially during assessments. Some teachers even view technology integration with hostility; it threatens the way things have always been done.
The word technology can apply to all types of tools used by humans: mathematical formulas, microscopes, rulers, calculators, computers, or even written language are forms of technology one might encounter in a classroom. I think if we begin to frame technology as tools, teachers and schools can start viewing these new technologies with less apprehension.
The mere presence of technology in the classroom environment does not mean that students will use it to enhance their learning experience. Teachers and students must be taught how to use the tools available to them, and also which tools will be most helpful in solving the problem at hand. Salomon and Perkins illustrate this when they use the metaphor of putting rifles in people’s hands. The mere presence of the rifle does not mean the person will have a good shot, or even know how to use it during battle.
Tools can allow humans to do things they’ve never done before. A person may be able to fly in an airplane. However, just because they are in the plane and using the tool, doesn’t mean they have any greater understanding of physics or aerodynamics. Humans need to interact with tools in ways that demand the development of a new skill, or mastery of using new tools. When this happens, human performance begins reaching new heights.
In the same way the rifle transformed warfare, the Internet will transform education. I believe we are in the process of this transformation. Technology enhances human abilities, and we should allow students to use the technologies (and other support systems) that are available to them in the real-world whenever possible. Too often schools ask students to perform tasks without tools, and without the support systems (both social and physical) that they would normally have access to. This will need to change.
Salomon, G., & Perkins, D. (2005). Do technologies make us smarter? Intellectual amplification with, of and through technology. In R. J. Sternberg & D. D. Preiss (Eds.), Intelligence and technology: The impact of tools on the nature and development of human abilities (pp. 71–86). Mahweh, NJ: Erlbaum.
