Technology In The Classroom

I have spent 35 years as a hardware computer designer, so it goes without saying that I am a technogeek. I preface my comments so there is no doubt that I am an advocate of technology in the classroom. But, there can be a down side. We have created a society that demands instant gratification. If we need to contact someone, there is no need to wait, we reach in our pockets and call. If we need a new shirt, computer, cell phone, etc., we get on the computer and order it. If we our really in a hurry, we have it shipped over night. Need a video, download it, need a new tune, download it, need to research a topic, Google it. My point is this. We have created a society in which instant gratification is normal and I am afraid that if our students can't find what they need within a few minutes, they give up.

In past years, persistence usually won out and the pursuer of a dream was eventually rewarded. More importantly, however, the sweat that preceded major discoveries often yielded accidental discoveries that have altered the course of history. We must be on guard that, while our goal may be to enlighten our students, we do not rob them of the joy of unexpected discovery, borne out of the persistent pursuit of their original goal.