When I first started teaching in the school district ten years ago, we were required to attend teacher workshops on topics such as communicating with parents, ELL, and Special Education (that’s right...no technology). While in the Special Education workshop, we took a Multiple Intelligence quiz. We were shown a series of slides with dots and asked to explain what we saw. Our answers determined how we learned best. I had taken many of these tests before, so I knew I was a visual learner. This time I also learned that I was an interpersonal learner. This means I work well in teams and when I discuss curriculum, I have a better understanding of the information. It made sense. That’s why I always did well in class if I joined a study group. It was confirmed: I was and still am a “people person”.
Then the shift came. Technology boomed and was integrated into education. In class discussion turned into Blackboard posts and comments. I struggled. I missed seeing people, hearing their tone of voice, and watching body language. I still miss it. I felt that I was losing one of my strengths as a learner...human interaction. Communication was now through a computer, phone, or tablet. But our world is constantly changing, and as a teacher in the 21st Century, I need to change with it. I recognize that if I do not constantly push myself to learn more about technology, my students will suffer. This is our world now, and this is their future.
I am just realizing how I can put my interpersonal skills to good use. I am beginning to understand how to “connect” people by using technology. Just yesterday, we were discussing how we can get more presenters for our Science Symposium. My idea was to have virtual presentations. Maybe students have scientists in their family that live in other states or countries. They could present via Skype or have a podcast with someone at NASA. As I sat there in the meeting, I gave myself a silent pat on the back. Though reluctant at times, I am becoming a 21st Century teacher.
Having been at that meeting with you, I can tell you that your pat on the back was deserved! That was a creative and very "current" solution. I think many of us are still reluctant about things like that, as we feel the same as you (used to??)-- that it's not the same/not as "good" as being face to face, in person, in the same room. But I also agree with you that it is what it is. Our world and the nature of our interpersonal relationships are changing. They're not necessarily better or worse, just different. What has changed for the better, I think, as a consequence, is that we now have access to people and can build relationships that we never would have been able to before.
ReplyDeleteI am a huge fan of multiple intelligences. I have read a ton about them and how we can use them in the classroom. One thing I remember coming across at some point is that strong Interpersonal Skills were the number one skill set related to success in life! You can be a brilliant math mind, but not have the skills to communicate it with anyone, and where does that leave you?
ReplyDeleteKristin, I feel the same way you do about losing some of the interpersonal skills due to the use of the computer. While it may connect some, I can see how it can also be isolating. I feel very strongly that there needs to be a balance. It's important to keep this in check. When does the risk of losing interpersonal skills outweigh the benefit? I wish I had a crystal ball to be able to tell. Like Alexa, I loved your idea for bringing in virtual guests for the symposium especially if we are having difficulty securing the people we need to make the day a success. You definitely deserve a pat on the back!
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