Monday, September 21, 2015

You don't have a choice

I think most of us are adverse to being forced into something.  Hardly anyone likes to be told what to do or feel as if they have no power in a decision of a matter.  While it may be uncomfortable for some, it's time to accept the fact that you have no choice when it comes to adapting to technology's mighty hand.  In this day of phones that are smarter than you and I or social networks that spread information faster than CNN ever could, there's no escaping it: in order to survive, you must adapt.  This is the modern-day version of natural selection: can you navigate technological advances that seem to change with each passing day?

"We don't have a choice on whether we do social media, the question is how well we DO it", says Erik Qualman.  Qualman's quote was featured in the video The Social Media Revolution, which shows the absolutely stunning numbers and research regarding the impact of social media on our world.  If you have yet to see this video, be prepared to be floored by what you're going to see what you're going to see.

Technology's impact is clearly seen in our classrooms as well.  I currently teach a middle school technology class in a room with 28 computers that are equipped with the latest programs and apps.  There's also a smart board in the room that serves as my main instructional tool.  Teachers everywhere are adapting.  However, if you're on the fence, I would implore you to watch A Vision of 21st Century Teachers.  I'm sure this appeal will speak to you.

3 comments:

  1. "You don't have a choice" and the comparison to Natural Selection can be kind of intimidating! Though I see your point. Right now we're all on the information superhighway.

    "What doesn't give me a bad review, makes me stronger!" -Nietzsche, on Linkedin

    Being able to sift through and prioritize information, I believe is the "how well we do it" part from Erik Qualman's quote. Some online info and quotes, as above (lol...) are just there for laughs, while many others can actually be part of all those electronically submitted papers and final projects.

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  2. Michael, in the case job searching, the "survival of the fittest" may hold true since many schools when comparing equally -qualified candidates, seem to prefer those with some tech expertise.

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  3. Darius,
    How lucky you are to be working in a school district right now. I'm going to ask you to share on our discussion board more about your insights.

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