We are entering the age of the global virtual classroom.
To those generations taught by teachers using chalk and blackboards, it is a bewildering concept.
In those days the introduction of an overhead projector was seen as a technological advance. Some even thought that a little moddish and faddish for an austere place of learning.
How times have changed.
At last week’s Pembina Hills school division meeting, trustees learned about Distributive Learning, which will allow students in the region to connect with teachers by video conferencing or the Internet.
The appeal of Distributive Learning is obvious and immediate. Students will be able to learn outside classroom hours – from home, in the hospital or overseas.
Wherever they are in the world they will be able to keep up with their studies and learn at their own pace. They will also have the opportunity to interact with peers all over the globe.
Teachers will have the capability to teach several classes at the same time. There could be cross-fertilization between municipalities, allowing one school to enjoy the strengths of another and vice versa.
Distributive Learning is an empowering concept as suggested by its slogan: any time, any place, any pace, any pathway. There are so many possibilities, so many causes for optimism.
The forward-thinking members of PHRD – a division that prides itself on innovation and constantly exploring new ways to engage modern learners – are excited.
Understandably so, for the bells, whistles and bright lights of something that appears so progressive are extraordinarily seductive. They stir the heart.
Deputy Supt. Colleen Symyrozum-Watt, however, is right to sound a cautionary note. Yes Distributed Learning is a bold idea, but it might not work for all students.
So baby steps first.
There are many unanswered questions, many details to be worked out, as educators try to design a future for the Pembina hills division.
Could it mean more unsupervised classrooms? Could it mean a reduction of one-on-one learning?
Many adults, for instance, can remember being influenced by a particular teacher who became a role model or even a father figure. Will this still be achievable as Distributive Learning spreads?
What are the implications of modern technology on the human brain? Does the brain receive information as effectively via a video link and other forms or modern technology?
Children are not software you can program into a computer and get predetermined results.
They are human beings, with a complex matrix of psychological, emotional, physical and mental needs and wants.
Distributive Learning is one education tool among many. And like any tool, its use depends on who is holding the handle.
In Barrhead’s case it is PHRD. And for that they should be thankful, for you can rest assured nothing will be done without the best interests of children being paramount.
Will Distributed Learning make children smarter?
No.
Einstein, Newton, Darwin, Shakespeare, Mozart, Beethoven and Michelangelo did just fine without gadgetry.
Will technology give students more choice and provide greater flexibility in education?
Absolutely.
