We need to prepare students for their future, not ours

CC image via flickr by flickingerbrad

I will no longer defend or debate EdTech as some radical idea in schools. I can no longer waste my efforts on the "value of EdTech debate". The simple fact is that education technology is no longer a stand alone class. It is not something you simply add on to your school. It is a literacy that is woven through the fabric of every school, K-12, and throughout our highly-competitive, global economy. Diminishing its value or merit is no longer acceptable. It’s the equivalent of neglecting to integrate reading and writing skill sets across the curriculum.

And for the record, I realize clearly that previous generations grew up without all of these gadgets and turned out just fine. I get it. The statement is crystal clear and yes, many generations grew up without something that the next generation adopts. I grew up without Internet and mobile technology and turned out perfectly fine. Although some would debate that last statement. Regardless of how previous generations learned, exposure to some technology is essential for students today. I’m not asserting that we need to place every student in front of an iPad from Kindergarten on, but simply give them the opportunity to use it. And not just use it, but provide access and opportunities for students throughout a school district to leverage the technology beyond word processing and PowerPoint presentations.

Technology is a literacy that is expected in higher education and in our economy. It is a universal language spoken by the entire world regardless of the profession. Our current students will encounter one of the toughest job markets in generations. Gone are the days of falling into a profession and riding that wave for 30 plus years, however; its not to say those jobs are not still available. They are, but they’re dwindling as automation and outsourcing continue to expand.

The contemporary job market requires us to adapt, continually learn, and apply various skill sets in many directions. We have to multi-task, connect beyond the work day, and collaborate and connect both locally and globally. And, while I am promoting that exposure to technology and digital tools is essential, we must do so responsibly. Teaching students how to balance technology usage along with offline socializing and interpersonal skills is essential. But, to proclaim that technology simply distracts, diminishes social skills, and holds lesser value than other content areas is irresponsible. And to do so not only let's our students down, but the mission statements that are emblazoned on the walls of our schools.

It’s equally important to expose students to information literacy skill sets. As databases grow and information continues to evolve into a paperless formats, it’s essential to teach students how to question effectively and efficiently. In a world flooded with information to read, libraries have never been more important. Along with digital and information literacy skill sets, it has never been more important that to promote and encourage a love of reading across all formats. And not to simply read, but to question, analyze, discern, and synthesize with other mediums.

I can no longer exert energy on this debate. And my point comes down to a single phrase…

We need to prepare students for their future, not ours.