I have a friend who tries to avoid technology. I find this fascinating, because I couldn't imagine not having technology to use! She doesn't own a computer, her cell phone is the most basic thing I've ever seen (with no internet), no TV, and even though she has the worst sense of direction she refuses to try a GPS or any mapping device that's not a paper map. Her thoughts on technology are that it is silly to learn how to work certain pieces of technology because once you know the basics, a new edition/upgrade/update comes along and you have to start from scrath all over again.
In some ways I can see where she is coming from. Can you image a world without technology though? We use technology for the simplest things and it doesn't occur to us that one day a long long time ago, they didn't have the technology we do today. Telling time, listening to the radio, typing a paper on the computer, and banking are all things that require technology.
I was thinking about the pieces I use most daily. I came up with my Nook, computer, phone, and Tv. I realized that each one of these items already has updates available for them, or a new edition that is better than the one I currently own. Updates, modifications, upgrades, and new editions will keep coming and new technology will happen! I realize that my technology isn't up to date with the fancy new high-def, 3-D, LED, handheld, amazing technology that is being advertised everywhere.
I am very comfortable with the technology that I have. I do think that the technology that is new is hard to get your hands on sometimes. That is one problem I seem with teachers and technology. Some have the access, and some don't, whether it's budget, limitations, or the knowledge of the technology. I'm sure there are pieces of technology out there being used in classrooms that I have never heard of. It's all about being curious and up to date intellectually. I think if a teacher is aware of a piece of technology and it's basic uses the teacher may become curious and want to learn more and get hands on, sharing with others about the piece.
What an interesting post and one that we can think about! Even though I could not live without technology, and to tell you the truth I don't think anyone actually lives without using technology, there are some days that I would love to do without! I think the idea that, "I am not going to learn the technology because it will change," is not a viable answer for most of us! In fact, that's why I usually learn the "structure" of a technology because new will come out, but the basic "structure" of the equipment, software, etc. will still be there. How it essentially works will stay the same. Interesting take on this though.
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting that your friend's life is so simple!! She doesn't have a computer!!! Technology makes our lives become more convenient and we can get lots of information. Even though she has no those technology things, she still use products under technology. I agree with Dr. Crawford that no one can live without technology.
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