The Digitalization of our Education System

So, you've probably noticed schools aren't quite what they used to be, thanks to this whole digital makeover, right? I thought so too, so I found the "rabbit hole" and fell into it.  Seems like that is all I do.  Anyway, I found a lot of things about this digitalization of our education system; after reading some of it, I broke it down into good and bad (or pros and cons)

The Good Stuff:

First off, can we take a moment to appreciate not being tied down to those bulky textbooks? Now, there's this vast online world filled with interactive lessons that can be, believe it or not, fun! It’s like upgrading from a cassette tape to Spotify.

And remember when school projects meant working with the same classmates year after year? Now, kids have this global playground. They're teaming up with peers from continents away for projects. Talk about expanding horizons!

For the teachers in the crowd: digital tools are a game-changer. Imagine getting real-time updates on how each student is doing and being able to swoop in with help just when they need it. Plus, the beauty of online learning means we can fit it around our crazy adult schedules.

The Not-So-Great Bits:

Now, onto the flip side. There's a real concern about folks who don't have the latest tech gear or reliable internet. It's like throwing a party and leaving some friends off the guest list.

And let’s face it, as much as we love our screens (hello, Netflix binges), being glued to them for learning, working, and socializing can be a bit much. It’s good to remember the outdoors exist, right?

Here's another head-scratcher: With all this online stuff, where’s our data going? It’s like leaving your diary out in the open; you never know who might take a peek.

Lastly, remember the good ol' school vibes? The chatter, the in-person connections, the unspoken camaraderie? Purely digital classrooms might miss out on that magic.

So there we have it. The digital age is shaking up education with loads of cool perks but also with a few hiccups. Like with most things in life, it's all about striking that perfect balance. What do you think?

I also found an article that talked about using this system to teach students proper online ettiqute to enable them to become prepared for the world of business after school.  Here is an excerpt: 

"As these digital transformation trends have impacted students in a variety of ways throughout their lives, students need to know how to interact politely and civilly online. This is similar to students learning how to be professional in an office or hospital setting. Schools have begun to recognize this importance, and teaching students in the principles of good digital citizenship has become an increasingly important trend throughout education.

When educating students on being a good digital citizen, schools empower students to embrace the full capacity of technology. To see the best results from digital citizenship instruction, institutions should aim to make it part of the culture for the students and teachers alike. These principles guide people to behave more collaboratively online, which can help students succeed in their classes and in a professional environment.

Students with this type of training are more prepared to enter the digitally-connected professional world. Their internet usage skills and ability to engage others through digital channels will help them perform in their chosen field, which means that educating students on digital citizenship is one of the most important emerging education trends."  (Top 8 digital transformation trends in Education)

This sounds good on paper, but as a science fiction reader of many years, it also sounds pretty scary.  If the digitalization of our education system can be used to teach students how to act, who is determining what to teach and what is the correct way to interact with each other.  It seems like a slippery slope here.  This, in my opinion, opens the door to a type of mind control or brainwashing of children.  Not good.

I know that we all love out computers, tablets, laptops and smart phones.  I do too. But where does critical thinking come into play here? And what exactly are we teaching our young? Are they learning what they need to learn to help them develop into a population of educated, socialized and independent thinkers?

After climbing out of the rabbit hole, I was concerned not relieved. What about you?