What are we REQUIRED to LEARN?

Here are a few questions that I thought of while preparing a presentation on instructional technology.

When was the last time you used the periodic table?

When was the last time you used a computer?

How often do you use algebra?

How often do you use the internet?
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Technology is considered an elective course in most secondary schools. At best, technology is merely a means of entertainment in order for educators to "keep up" with their students. The aura of education is based on an idea that we must teach the 'classics' or those things that have withstood the winds of change (i.e. math, science, history, and language.) Since technology changes more often than some people change their socks it may be that some students will merely hear about the affects of technology on society while in a history class. However, if instructional technologies (more than just computer tools) were incorporated in classrooms to promote problem solving, effective research skills, creativity, critical thinking, and working in collaborative groups we could see a revolution occur. Educators could become facilitators of learning rather than giant urns of knowledge drowning saturated sponges with the 'all knowing' that they possess.
The 'classics' are essential to education and the education of technology is essential to societal growth. In order to stay current with instructional technology teachers must facilitate the education of problem solving, creativity, and critical thinking.