Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Judicious Use of Technology.

Technology without humanity=annihilation.
My classroom is a computer lab, and I teach kids software applications. It's pretty much pedal to the metal technology all the time.
Which is why they need to read.
I have parents ask me what technology they will need at home, and I tell them that I don't expect them to buy anything, because that would not be fair and I don't want the kids to work on their technology at home. An Applied Art is hands-on.
I only believe in one kind of homework.
Reading.
Kids need time without external stimulation especially after a day of being plugged in to music players and texting and school and sports and and and.
Focus in silence is becoming a Lost Skill.
So for half an hour several days a week I ask the kids to read and have that be the only thing going on.
This is a lot to ask.I have no idea if they are just reading or not. It's their home, their time, not mine.
Think about what is at stake, though.
Humans who can be quiet with their thoughts and stories and ideas and words and worlds and possibilities.
I worry about losing these humans.
A little balance can go a long way.
I need to believe this.

6 comments:

  1. We keep tuning in more and more each year. It's not all bad, but it's not all good, either.

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    1. Moderation. And being smart. Easier said than done. Thanks, Matthew.

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  2. Love the homework you set your kids! Take care
    x

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  3. I feel the need to unplug at the end of the day and I'm sure I'm not as plugged as your students. That quiet time, that reading time, is so renewing and rejuvenating for the spirit. Aaaaah! :)

    Happy A-Z!

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    1. Thank your for your comment and for stopping by, Madeline!

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