Monday, February 25, 2008

Take Back the Afternoon: Preserving the Landscape of Childhood In Spite of Computers

This article is to try to get teachers and parents to encourage the old way of learning at least a couple times a week. Like playing outside at recess, feeling the air touching the trees, faling down scuffing thier knees etc... The point here is that computers should follow, not lead. Dynamic, real life engagements that build skills, self-confidence and a sense of purpose in life are the motive force of education. The computer has a role to play in this drama, but it should be a supporting cast member, not the star. Right now, the computer is too much of a prima donna, attracting attention away from the rest of the players and the technical crew. And if an increasing percentage of the school budget is spent on computers, then not enough will be spent on pianos, art materials, laboratory equipment, land acquisition for the nature center, bilingual education specialists and a new sound system for the theater. Childhood is short enough; there is no need to hasten its demise with exposure to soul-depleting electronic media.


Take Back the Afternoon real, old-fashioned play, at least a couple of days a week.

7 comments:

OH-IO said...

Good job! I liked it.

Lauren said...

I agree that computers should follow and not lead. As a sub, I do see that the students are so concerned with techonolgy and not "normal" kid stuff. Everything is about email and ipods and internet and not about kickball and recess.. Kids happier with indoor recess so they can bring out their electronics, when I was a kid we hated indoor recess. I agree with this article.

PetePappas said...

Good article. I think it makes a valid point. However, I think schools should not step back from incorporating technology in the classroom.

If over use of technology is becoming an issue, then the culprit may be the parents. Parents should establish restrictions on their child's use of technology (video games / tv / cell phone?) as to not inhibit their social development.

Andrea Limbach said...

How interesting!! I find it interesting that technology gets such a bad rap when it comes to our children. i see both sides of the coin.

adriana sabath said...

I agree with Lauren too, computers should follow not lead.
I like the concept of a teacher, presenting, guiding ,motivating their students.

Tina said...

I love this article!...what a great idea to incorporate old and new ways of learning through the classroom as well as through a student’s home life…I like the concept of computers following what a student learns, not leading what they learn. Great article!

Mark said...

Two thumbs up. I agree whole heartedly that this is the correct perspective with regards to the role of computers in society. However, I fear that it's already gotten past this point. The genie's out of the bottle and he's never going back in. Nice job Stephanie!