Computer generated lessons can be finely tuned to the individual, but they are insufficient for disinterested students or children for whom reading is difficult. A talented teacher can motivate and encourage even the seemingly bored or sullen child by engaging with them, showing interest in incremental improvements, and helping them find high interest/age appropriate reading material. When a school offers a variety of learning environments young people, despite a compendium of ability levels, all get an opportunity to acquire skills without stress. Students challenged by a specific learning difficulty are no longer isolated from their peers for skill specific tutoring.
Discussion boards and forums online are insufficient substitutes for social skills kids acquired through face to face interactions. Children need multiple opportunities to become familiar with socialization cues, politeness, empathy and ways to mitigate critical comments or negative remarks. As we strive to produce ethical and honest citizens, education should include negotiation skills, ways to achieve compromise and opportunities to experience the responsibility that comes with leading others. Modern education is incomplete if it is seen as merely acquiring information. Classroom activities and an opportunity to bond with friends is equally important.
Do you remember a particularly encouraging or engaging educator who impacted your life? If you can read this, maybe you or your grown children owe a thank you note to the special teacher who left a positive imprint on your life.
A New York Times essay by Daphne Koller describes pioneering efforts coming out of Stanford University's Artificial Intelligence Lab and the Khan Academy, scalable ways to disseminate foundational information to a high volume of students. These experimental studies demonstrate that bringing basic learning to all the world's children is no longer a dream. Wherever there is a computer, there is the possibility of a mobile classroom. However, even in remote locations we must continue to build inviting school buildings where students can gather in safety to share learning and play, draw and make music. These experiences extend human imagination and broaden our capabilities by giving us the chance to learn new skills. Check out the art appreciation, science courses, etc. offered by the non-profit Khan Academy.
Training high quality, creative teachers who are willing to be attentive yields polished students whose individual gifts have been identified early and nurtured. Teachers who model patience and support as children struggle with unfamiliar concepts are the jewels in the crown of public education. Teaching is being stretched by the rapid advances in technology and our teachers are pressured to teach to tests. (Think: Kaplan or Princeton Review course). Today's students are participating in a metamorphosis in public education as are their teachers. Hopefully, none of them will be stampeded by those impatiently drumming for a complete overhaul of teaching techniques proven effective over time. (updated) If we invest in computer learning while respecting dedicated teachers, online classes will soon be broadcast around the globe 24/7, a prelude to eradicating illiteracy.
