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The Edutopia Poll
by Sara Ring
Some Edutopia readers, though excited about the possibilities of technology, wondered in the latest magazine if elaborate digital programs could one day replace teachers. One educator wrote, "Teachers need training . . . and embedded in this training must be the vision of technology as enhancer, not replacer." Another described her current job as a computer coach as her dream teaching assignment, and then concluded, "My only worry is that I will eventually make my own job obsolete." Indeed, advances in technology throughout the years have made certain jobs irrelevant -- think of switchboard operators or elevator attendants. Are you concerned this could happen to educators? Tell us what you think!
Are you concerned that technology could make educators obsolete?
No, technology will not replace teachers, it should somewhat change what teachers do.
Technology and teachers
I find it interesting that of your 4 selections, none of them describe the role that teachers have in actually working with creators of the technology. Programmers and multi-media designers are not necessarily educators. These folks will still need to rely on teachers and instructional designers for the content that technology delivers.
Teachers may need to re-educate themselves to learn how best to present learning digitally, how to create distance learning and blended learning courses, and how to work with technology products and learners in and out of the classroom.
Teachers who blind themselves to what they can offer to technology, and how technology depends on the teacher are only looking at a half-full glass.
Bernice
Replaced by technology
By the time technology replaces educators, I will be retired. For students to learn with technology, they must at least turn the computer on and attempt to use it. In my experience, several cyber-schooled students who have come to my attention did not pass even the orientation course. A responsible educator must be the motivator--in person.
Technology and teachers
While the role of educators will change as newer technologies become available, the central role of the teacher -- to facilitate education -- will be enhanced. Our goals of tailoring instruction to the needs of the individual, rather than an amorphous group, will be met. Through the guidance that we are called upon to provide, learners will be able to find and authenicate information, create the logical synapses that becomes knowledge and develop into adults with the wisdom to make the critical decisions that will affect their lives.
Teachers will always be needed
This question could have been written in the 1950's when TV came on the scene, as well as in the 1920's when radio became widely popular. Everytime there is a change in mass communication, someone sees the "end" of education as we know it. Perhaps we should be spending our time on more meaningful questions?
That statement is so true.
Technology AND Teachers
In Technology Education (we used to call some of my class shop) things have changed greatly. The "hands on" part of each day is now video, photo, and graphics. However, and most importantly, the "human" part of my time with the students is the same (maybe even stronger).
The kids need the compassion, and concern that technology cannot provide. We need to use the tools that are available and, more importantly, be present to for young people who are going into the world.
Yes, my subject is presented is differently than 20 years ago, and yet the kids still need to know they are doing well, and teachers need to have the compassionate feedback only a human can provide.
It's Possible!
Teachers may be replaced in the future with technology. We already know of "on-line" high school diplomas and "on-line" credit recovery. There are over one million students currently who are experiencing "virtual" classes.
While teachers may call students "illiterate"--students call teachers "illiterate about technology."
What will the 21st Century school room look like? I'm asking students to tell me.
Replacing teachers
I believe that technology will not replace teachers. Teachers will teach differently because of technology. At the beginning of a school year I am the students main tool for learning, by the end of the year I hope that I am only a resource they need to future their education.
Tech makes teachers obsolete?
No... Absolutely not. In fact I think it will make teachers more valuable, with a bit of rethinking about the role of a "teacher". Can tech "teach" our kids? Of course. And very well. But who will "teach" our kids to use tech safely and effectively? And then there are just those things that tech will never reach in the teaching process. Such as analyzing a child's learning style through observing them engaged in activities or playing, teaching group interaction skills, observational and critical thinking skills and numerous other things a computer just can't touch. Is it the "ABC's"? No. Is it important? Now, more than ever.
I think the caveat in this topic comes in the notion that we may have to re-tool those who teach teachers to break with the "Listen to ME while I profess at the Chalkboard" methods traditionally drilled into new teachers' heads. These "traditional" methods will have to be modified or in some cases completely abandoned in order to teach "tech" because it is so non-linear and individualized.