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Monday, February 8, 2010

Call To Action

Why does technology scare so many people? I feel as though I am surrounded by professionals terrified of "gadgets" and "on-line" networking that makes them so unprofessional.

Take a stand. Be an advocate of responsible and innovative technology.

13 comments:

Tkorda said...

People who're mostly 'scared' of technology are older generations who weren't exposed to and/or weren't expected to know anything/very little about this topic. It's hard to believe but I've seen teachers who barely know how to check their emails.

In this day and age all of us should make some time to educate ourselves when it comes to using on-line networking or different 'gadgets'. Those who fail to do so will find themselves in trouble relatively soon since most things will be accessible online only.

Alaafia said...

Professionals who are scared of technology are those who are not ready to move with the changing wind of time. They are afraid of change, and are also not keeping up with the outside world. They are scared of taking risks, or of showing their vulnerability because of the embarrassment they might get from colleagues. That's why they enjoy the "status quo" where they feel face and comfy, not wanting to try something new though it will make their professional lives a whole lot better.

Unknown said...

Many professionals who are don't keep up with technology feel like they have been in the field for so long and what they have been doing has always worked, so why change it. I know some educators that feel their students performance on standardized tests have been good so there is no need to use or learn different technologies.

Furthermore, I believe many individuals are embarassed to ask for help or they don't know where to get it without being a nag or taking up someone else's time.

If more inservice days were utilized to teach professionals how to use technology perhaps its use would be more successful and widespread.

AmandaBish said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
AmandaBish said...

I definitely agree that with Rebecca that some professionals might be embarrassed to have to ask for help. But to risk not making the most of what is available because of your pride is ridiculous. Technology has made our classes richer (especially with blogs like this and webct).

A. Medina said...

It is true that many professionals have an apprehension towards new technology. There is a lot of information posted on trusted sites like Wikipedia that are considered factual, but are not necessarily true. This can hinder the research process. There are also sites that are designed to corrupt and spy on your personal files and accounts. Think about the number of ad-ware cookies that you find in your computer whenever you run a virus scan. Even current employers and professors will make it a point to view your facebook and myspace pages to evaluate your personal character… Personally as a young professional, I enjoy the efficiency and ease that current technological trends have allotted however, these technologies can be abused, which frighten many people. We must remember that it takes time for others to become accustomed to change.

Ana said...

I recently had a conversation with a co-worker about this same issue. It's a problem in many professions, especially in the education field. Many older teachers are refusing to learn about technology, without a just reason. I recently spoke to a teacher who simply told me, "I'm too old for that! Who cares." I tried to explain to her that it may help her connect with her students. But like Alarys mentioned, it's hard for others to accustom to change, especially when they have been comfortable and satisfied with their work for several years.

danielle allegra said...

i think people are just afraid of change. It all depends on the generations, for the younger generations who are starting or new in a field, they are more open to technology and its uses. The older generations are so used to the "older" ways and don't see a need to change it.

Unknown said...

I agree Danielle, and think it is a large problem. I also believe people who are new to a field feel the need to be up to date in order to keep their jobs and get tenure. New teachers and professionals are more inclined to learn all the new material in order to stand out. You often see this in schools where the new teachers run a lot of the clubs and sports while people who have been in the business a long time move away from this. This is not true of everyone, but I feel it is the case for far to many.

danielle allegra said...

i agree. i think technology is a necessity to have mastered in any field. i cant see many fields being able to survive without it, i could imagine how the older generations feel that, now, they have to learn something completely new to them but they have to in order to keep up with what is going on around them

Mark said...

I have to say, being one that is "scared" of technology can have a downside. But the more I am versed in a new realm the more possibilities open up. I do agree that technology can enhance a students learning experience, it can make lessons continue on even after the school day. From a school psychologist standpoint the trend towards computer technology with enhance assessment techniques(Swerdlik & French, 2000). But how do we accept it? With a little anxiety for those who lack computer skills? This is where we need to have workshops and professional development geared to make the transition into a new field smooth and effortless.

Mark said...

Rebecca, you do see a lot of the younger staff take on a more proactive role, it serves a few purposes. You gain more experience, you bump up your salary, and you become more marketable. Becoming proactive about your field will open doors and also benefit the students in new ways that the "old schoolers" may not of thought of.

Stefanie said...

I agree with Danielle so many people are afraid of change. MOst of the people that I know that know nothing about computers or the internet, do not have children and are part of an older generation. My poor father God rest his soul...didn't want anything to do with a computer thought it was a crazy idea until he found out about EBAY and then his life changed. He was addicted and learned how to use one. That is all these older generations need someone to tell them, "don't worry it's ok, it will take time but you will learn, don't be afraid, these computers will still be around long after you are gone." LOL