The Digital Divide (or Don’t eTrust Anyone Over 30)

10. November 2008 by The Advisor.

Project Tomorrow conducted its annual Speak Up survey, collecting data on the views of administrators, teachers, students, and parents on technology and education. Surprisingly, despite all the emphasis that has been placed on getting technology into the classroom, most students indicated they did not think their school was preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow.

Most administrators thought otherwise.

Students cited more restrictions on internet use, arbitrary bans on certain types of technology, and the need to “power down” (be less techy) to conform to school policy as reasons for why they feel schools are falling short. Students in particular cited mobile technology as something they would like to use more at school as a collaboration tool (much like students use them outside of school).

This last point gets at the crux of this issue. This divide is not about any particular type of technology, as much as it is about how one views technology itself. Many administrators view educational technology like textbooks, projectors, or other equipment: As a thing - something to be purchased and controlled. They purchase technology “solutions” from vendors, and then try to control how these items are used in their schools.

The students, however, view technology like pencils: Something they bring with them to help them learn. No one tries to control access to the pencil sharpener; it’s just there. Students want the technology to be “just there” too. Something they can use as a tool when needed. Not something they get limited access to as part of a controlled “tech in the classroom” action plan.

Like all generational divides, however, this issue will eventually resolve itself. For the students, time is on their side, yes it is.

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