We are constantly trying to move forward at an incredible pace. New apps, faster devices, and more data lead to instant gratification. Education is no exception.
What if, instead of speeding up, we slow down? What if we retreat?
Consider that we’ve given students devices that put the world at their fingertips at all times. Is anyone else convinced that this was the best move? Are our kids more or less connected now?
Maybe, just maybe, we should take two steps back.
Think about a classroom where the primary tools are books, paper and pencil, and lively discussion.
I’m not suggesting completely abandoning technology. What I am suggesting is being more conscious in our decision making. Let’s prioritize what’s actually important.
We want all of our students to engage in listening, having thoughtful conversation and debate, and struggling with complex ideas without immediately turning to Google. These are the things that students should be doing even without the latest and greatest device in their hands.
Try these strategies to take two steps back:
Slow down the curriculum. Let’s stop cramming more into the day and give our students time to breathe. Let them explore ideas from multiple angles, and focus on deep understanding.
Emphasize the fundamentals. Students need a solid foundation in reading, writing, and (a)rithmetic. I especially want our students to spend more time actually reading and writing. These foundational skills should be the building blocks for developing critical thinkers.
Limit technology with intentional choice. Don’t just roll out technology for the sake of using tech. Be intentional in your decisions. Tech is meant to help us learn, not distract us from it. Choose wisely when deciding how and when to use technology.
Cultivate connections. Beautiful things happen with face to face interaction. Give students the chance to collaborate, problem solve, empathize and understand each other. Let them also connect to those subjects and projects that they inherently love.
Some of these things are timeless. They happened in our classrooms long ago, and should be happening well into the future.
The future of education is not about more, faster, digital. It’s actually about less, deeper, and more human.
Take two steps back to move forward clearly. Be deliberate and intentional. Oh, and start right now.
Rich