The cliche is that the only constant is change, and nowhere is that more apparent than in education, and especially educational technology. In the span of only a few years [okay, a few to me], we have seen computers go from massive mainframes to netbooks, raising hands replaced with response systems, and text-book centered instruction transforming (slowly) to collaborating in a wiki-world. In the midst of change it helps to have some principles.
1. Technology in itself is not a cure for any ailment. Creative and committed teachers who see technology as a means to an end (and not an end in itself) are the most successful in improving student achievement.
2. The challenge for the 21st Century is not mastering a particular program but coping with a massive flood of information. We have an obligation to teach students how to choose and evaluate sources of information so that they can make informed decisions.
3. Collaboration is going to be the hallmark of this generation. Much has been made of how the world is becoming flat. Our students are already collaborating across town and around the nation on social networking sites and through instant messaging. If they aren't already, they will be producing information in concert with others on a global scale. The opportunities are staggering.
