There are many who describe the online service they provide as archiving. I think of this as the identification, collection, and organization of valuable, existing resources. The provider does not generate the resources but provides a “value added” service built from existing content.
The Kids Should See this is an interesting example of such a service. This blog offers interesting video not specifically developed for educational purposes, but which clearly offer educational value.
The limitation I see in NCLB is that what the program is purported to accomplish is not the problem to be solved in order to address issues of international competition. Getting as many students as possible to some basic level of functioning is not the need as indicated by data summarized by the Economic Policy Institute. Basic skills are not regarded as lacking by employers who need workers with basic skills. Educational programs for the encouragement of high achieving students do not receive sufficient attention.
California politicians and academic administrators evidently disagree on the role for online learning in higher education. LATimes describes the difference in positions taken by Gov. Brown and UC President Napolitano. Descriptions sounds like a “boots on the ground” (military comparisons are in) go slow approach versus a silicon valley encouraged tech is the answer approach.
I have used PhET simulations (University of Colorado) to provide examples of simulations at no cost. It is helpful to do more than describe when you can allow inservice teachers to experience. I learned today that PhET sims are being done as HTML5 – this approach allows the sims to run across platforms and on tablets.
The flipped classroom seems to be a technology supported trend gaining the most acceptance with teachers. This conclusion from Speak Up data.
Ever find yourself in one of those situations where you think your friends have gone too far, but you are afraid to say so. I think ed tech types may feel this way about coding (I do). While coding (in contrast to computer literacy) is a great vocational skill and a great hobby, the everyone needs to be a coder/maker/designer mantra is probably taking things too far. Someone needs to say it. I am a coder, but everyone does not have to be like me. This article in the NY Times reaches this conclusion and makes the case in a nice way.
I happen to feel this way about several education issues. The logic being applied just seems a little off. NCLB will not prepare protect the economy of the U.S.. The very high level skills necessary to create new products and services may be very real, but creating a system that focuses on getting all post a minimum does nothing to address such advanced skills. In fact, it is likely diverting attention from the opportunities necessary to develop such skills. I believe everyone should be supported in developing the best self possible, but these programs do not really do that.
