With the increasing use of computers in schools and the fact that too many of us (kids included) spend way too much time with our faces glued to small and large screens (oooh, shiny), the question that begs to be asked is, "How much time is too much screen time?"
I'm all about connecting kids with technology in schools, don't get me wrong. Besides believing in the power of technology to enhance our instruction, if we don't, we risk a whole generation of kids checking out of this thing we call school. However, I am concerned in our rush to increase the use of blended learning in schools that some of us may be taking things a little too far. Of particular concern to me are those folks across the country (e.g., Carpe Diem Schools) implementing the "flex model" of blended learning under the guise of being "innovative". Call me old school, old-fashioned, or whatever, but I don't think computer programs, digital content and the like, no not even Hal, can take the place of the interaction that takes place between a teacher and his or her students during that magical thing called learning. Let embrace the latest and greatest technology, but be mindful of using it to do what it does best, freeing up teachers to do what they do best.
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