Madda, M.J. (2017, December 11). Why Technology Can’t Fix Education | TEDxChicago. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lqjh24uq9tM
In this TED Talk, Mary Jo Madda pushes against the misconception that technology is the future of education, and that technology is the answer many of the problems found in education today. She gives examples of how the incorporation of technology can lead to many problems, particularly when it leads to a lack of teacher presence and involvement in student learning. Overall, she stresses that although technology can be used as a great tool in the classroom, the “teacher factor” cannot be devalued, and that there must be a triangular relationship with students, technology, and the teacher working together. Ultimately, there must be a balance between the utility of tech and the beauty of human nature. This is important to consider when using technology as a tool for learning in, and out of the classroom – whether inside the school, or out in the ‘wild,’ teachers must consider their role in facilitating the learning, and ensure that the goals are being met when using technology outside for example. Although Madda is an American educator and she speaks about the implementation of technology in American schools, the topic is very relevant to the Canadian school system as well.
