Technology & Education

OK, let's start with the disclaimer: I am an educational technologist (among other things). Part of what I do is design, develop and teach in on-line settings. I am also taking graduate coursework in educational technology. The idea that technology has a place in educational settings, to me, is a given.

However,

I have recently seen some acquaintances and colleagues decide that it is time to "jump on the bandwagon" without giving much thought to how they are going to arrive at where they supposedly want to go (nor does it really concern them). They just think that it's important to riding on this particular conveyance. There is a difference between using technology for the "wow, way cool dude" factor, and using technology becaurse it enhances the learner's ability to grasp the essential concepts being taught. not every technological capability is equally adequate in every situation, nor is it desirable. To my mind, this is true regardless of whether we are discussing in-class vs. virtual or a school vs. a corporate setting. In short, one technology does not fit all, and it is imperative to determine the desired end result and the best route to get there, rather than simply jumping into the back of the cart and hoping to eventually arrive at one's hoped for destination.

What do you think?