Ed Tech types learn to make statements such as “it is not about the tools, it is about the learning”. Part of this was so we did not scare off teachers who focus on helping learners and give the impression we are wrapped up in our preoccupation with the latest technology. We learned to avoid implying that we were about “computer literacy” and began to use phrases such as “technology integration” (I take some credit for this).
I wonder if we have been too defensive. I am not proposing that we go full bore on expecting educators to always use the newest thing, but I think a good case can be made for expecting students to learn to use specific technology tools and perhaps even of greater important learn how to learn about new technologies on their own (my grad students – pay attention).
I have been reading about the history of the controversy between those advocating for work on artificial intelligence and those advocating augmented intelligence. I would describe some of my research (when I was involved in research as falling within the augmented intelligence camp).
Perhaps the new “computer literacy” is about learning the technology tools and tactics that allow the application of augmented intelligence to whatever area of endeavor we find necessary. For learners (or educators), does this argument suggest a different emphasis?
I suggest this post by Heather McGowan which makes what I think is a similar argument.