Are you concerned that technology could make educators obsolete?

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.

That statement is so true.

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?

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.

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.

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

No, technology will not replace teachers, it should somewhat change what teachers do.