Chris Dardar - Responding to Thomas Suarez - A 12 year old Apple Developer
Thomas Suarez at any other time in history would be thought of as extraordinary. Thomas, who is only 12 years of age, has developed several Apps for Apple products. He has learned to work with multiple software developing kits. Remarkably, his achievements this early in life are wonderful but not that uncommon. Today's student's are far beyond what we could have ever thought possible when it comes to understanding technology. Technology has evolved throughout my entire life. We purchased our first home PC in 1983. It was basically a glorified type writer that could play solitaire and a few other games. Technology has grown exponentially over the last 30 years. The Thomas Suarez's of the world are what I am finding more and more fascinating. Students today are not as excepting as I was to just have the game on the PC, they are more interested in creating the game or making the one they have even better. Many twelve year olds throughout our country are like Thomas, in that, they do not just use the technology but also understand it.
Our school has always embraced technology. We have decided to incorporate iPads into the daily curriculum. Each 5-12 grade student will be receiving iPads in the 2012 school year. The goal is to integrate the technology as tool in learning without allowing it to be the focus of learning. Technologies role in schools should be to aide in the learning process. Our students will receive an education that does not only focuses on what is thought of as traditional educational needs but also a thought out plan of what will make them the most ready for today's world.
Technology really is no longer something that can be taught in isolation. When we announced the new technology initiative that includes the distribution of iPads, one of the division heads said that we aren't teaching the students technology; they are now using technology to learn. That statement, I believe, captures the differences from our generation and the one in schools today. I can't wait to see what kind of apps our students will create in the days ahead.
ReplyDeleteChris and Stephanie,
DeleteI would be interesting in connecting with you during the 2012-13 school year to hear about your successes, challenges, reflections and anyting in-between. I also see wonderful possibilities but am always a little cautious when it comes to the unknowns that can surface especially when it comes to technology. I'm glad to know that this initiative is being carried out "right around the corner". I would enjoy seeking your perspective during the process.
Rachel, I, unlike Stephanie, have been extremely cautious about the venture we are undertaking. I do believe we have taking steps in the right direction by allowing our faculty to become familiar 8 months in advanced. I also believe that currently we are under staffed in our tech department and it could cause a problem if we do not address it. That being said like you I am very interested to see how it goes.
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