I recently ran across an interview with Google's CEO, Eric Schmidt. In the interview he discussed how the Internet and technology will change in the next five years. Here are some of the points he made, and I've highlighted those that will have the greatest impact on education, in my opinion.

I've reading a lot of technology journals, blogs, and articles lately about the future of technology, especially in how it relates to what we all do. One of the most noteworthy is an article in Newsweek about the release of a new product from Apple Computers. Known for their innovative products, and recently for re-writing the rules on cel phones with the iPhone, the next "big" release will be an Apple Tablet. Sometimes called the "iTablet" this product is expected to be announced after the New Year, and then actually available in Mary or June of 2010. A great article on why this is noteworthy can be found at: 

 One of the biggest frustrations in education is the constant changing of technology. We all try our best to keep up, but with limited funding it is difficult. Often our students have better "tools" than we do. New iPhones, smart phones, Blackberries, etc. tend to make us feel we are always behind. I think that as the technology gets easier to use (have you looked at how simple the  iPhone interface is?) we will accept more technology in our daily lives, and this translates into more use in the classroom. 

On the other side of the coin are the discoveries we make. Every day I find some new shortcut or application that simplifies or makes work more interesting. What used to take hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment to create (recording studios, TV studios, radio stations) can now be accomplished with a thousand-dollar laptop. iMovie, Garage Band, iPhoto, and iDVD allow for professional-level projects, something unheard of ten years ago. I'm always amazed. Give them a try and you'll see what I see in my workshops: teachers who are surprised at how easily they create wonderful content and share it. More later...

Let me know your thoughts.

 Dr. Dan

Today's K-12 educators are facing three major tensions:

•    20th Century curriculum vs. 21st century needs.

•    Industrial age teaching methods developed in an age of child obedience vs. today's restless, mobile youth.

•    Isolated classrooms vs. a connected, global marketplace.
 

I think this shows some of the challenges we face. Frustrating, but also invigorating.

 Well, it is that time. We've seen many of our old friends come through the TAC door in the last week or so and I think they are getting ready for another year at school! I trully think teaching is one of the most difficult jobs you can choose, yet most of our teachers step up to the plate and give it their best shot. Makes me proud to be a former teacher.

That being said, we must all think about the world our students are living in and where they are headed. Technology surrounds everyone, and is a centerpoint in most employment positions now. So...we must prepare our students for that kind of world, but we must prepare ourselves, too. We don't have to be first, or even ahead of the students, but we need to move forward with them. Communication is complex and there are many new avenues opening up each year. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, wikis, web pages, e-mail, so many ways to communicate that open up the world for all ofus. And we must not be afraid. We must move with the rest of the world.

It is slow to change educational practices, but we must be aware of the world and do what we can. Thanks for reading from BLOG WILD!

Dr. Dan

The aim of technology is, of course, to enhance student learning, but it is important to remember that technology can make learning dynamic, exciting, and current. For example, Hankers, left, is wearing socks. Read more in my Blog.

If you have suggestions for training videos please let us know. The most requested so far have been DotNetNuke, SMART Board, and FirstClass. We have many more on the drawing board, but would like to be sure to offer those most in demand. Thanks.

Dr. Dan

 Hi, everyone. With the popularity of interactive whiteboards we've established two new FirstClass conferences for sharing ideas, questions, and activities. If you want to join the SmartBoard conference just let me know (Dan Bird). If you wish to join the Activboard (Promethean) conference contact Eileen Heller.

Both are wonderful products and our students will benefit if you use them well. Training is available for both, of course.

 Have a great day!

Dr. Dan

I will occasionally update this blog with current information on technology within OPS. I hope to share ideas and thoughts on where we are, where we are headed, and most importantly, what we can do to prepare our students for the future.

Dr. Dan