When we used the pen, the books we touched, the sheets, the notebooks, everything had a life, now everything is machine and robots, our brains are in danger of being altered !
Dear Saliha Boutora Salameh Barhoom and Dudley J Benton
If we were to go back twenty years in terms of teaching methods, it would involve a shift from the prevalent use of digital tools and technology in education today to more traditional methods that rely on physical materials such as pens, books, and notebooks. While there are certain advantages and nostalgic elements associated with traditional teaching methods, it's important to consider the benefits that technology has brought to education as well.
Here are some points to consider regarding the potential shift:
1. Engagement and Interactivity: Digital tools and technology have revolutionized education by providing interactive and engaging learning experiences. Multimedia resources, simulations, virtual reality, and online collaboration platforms can enhance student engagement and comprehension of complex concepts.
2. Access to Information: The internet has made vast amounts of information readily available to students, enabling them to access a wide range of educational resources and research materials. This has expanded learning opportunities and promoted self-directed learning.
3. Personalized Learning: Technology allows for adaptive and personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. Intelligent tutoring systems and learning management platforms can provide customized feedback, track progress, and offer tailored content based on students' abilities and learning styles.
4. Collaboration and Communication: Digital tools enable seamless collaboration and communication among students and teachers, regardless of geographic barriers. Online platforms facilitate group projects, peer-to-peer learning, and global connections, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange.
5. Flexibility and Convenience: Online learning platforms and digital resources offer flexibility in terms of time, location, and pace of learning. This allows learners to access educational materials at their convenience and engage in lifelong learning.
However, it's crucial to strike a balance between traditional and modern teaching methods to ensure a holistic educational experience. While digital tools provide numerous benefits, incorporating elements of tactile learning, such as writing with pen and paper or reading physical books, can still be valuable for certain aspects of education.
Regarding concerns about the potential alteration of our brains, it is important to approach the integration of technology in education responsibly. Digital literacy, critical thinking, and mindful use of technology should be emphasized to mitigate any potential negative effects. Educators and policymakers play a crucial role in establishing guidelines and promoting healthy technology usage habits.
In summary, while there are merits to both traditional and modern teaching methods, leveraging technology in education has significantly expanded learning opportunities, personalized learning experiences, and access to information. By thoughtfully integrating technology and fostering a balanced approach, we can harness its benefits while preserving essential elements of tactile and traditional learning.
I have been writing software for 50 years. Sure, it's changed but that's not the problem. Take for example 5. (Flexibility and Convenience... allows learners...) Everything has become all about the self-absorbed super special individual rather than about content and accumulated knowledge. In the past, a student adapted to the established process of instruction in order to learn. Now the university must adapt to the student, who remains ignorant because learning is no longer a goal. Eventually, these empty-headed bloated egos become faculty.
I appreciate your insights on the evolution of software. I agree that there has been a shift in focus from content and accumulated knowledge to flexibility and convenience. However, I believe that this shift does not necessarily mean that students are becoming more self-absorbed or ignorant.
In the past, students may have been forced to adapt to a rigid instructional process, but this did not always lead to effective learning. In fact, many students found the process to be frustrating and disengaging. Today, students have more control over their learning, and they can choose the methods that work best for them. This can lead to deeper learning and more engaged students.
Of course, there are always those who will take advantage of flexibility and convenience to avoid learning. However, I believe that these students are in the minority. Most students are eager to learn, and they appreciate the opportunity to have more control over their education.