Senior School News « Aberdeen Hall

When Marshall McLulan coined the phrase “The medium is the message” in 1964, he initiated a paradigm shift in how we perceive technology, and how it can be used to alter our learning. McLulan’s theory was based on the idea the technology utilized to deliver information significantly influences our ability to understand the content itself. In educational settings, the medium utilized to deliver knowledge has traditionally been the teacher. As such, the message would always be filtered through the instructor before reaching the student.

In the early days of education teachers used slate tablets, chalkboards, maps and diagrams to assist them in their efforts to disseminate this information. In more modern times, slide projectors, radio broadcasts and television replaced these antiquated technologies. However, the medium remained the same: the teacher determined the content, pace and volume of knowledge that his or her students could access. Technology was used to simply assist in the delivery of this message.

Today the world of education is in transition. Now more than ever before, students have access to a world of technology that offers immense possibilities. Of course, the technology available includes the vast selection of computers and assistive technology that play a regular role in our daily lives. In addition, teachers have the opportunity to utilize a wide array of lesson design techniques and teaching strategies. The challenge that faces teachers is how to employ these new technologies.

This moment offers us with the chance to dramatically alter the medium in which our students learn. We do not need to teach with computers, laptops and the Internet the same way that we would use a textbook, a chalkboard or a slate tablet. Instead, we can choose to design lessons that employ technology as a medium to assist students in developing their personal inquiry and problem solving skills. Today’s technology can be used to build a rich platform for collaborative learning where students learn project management, problem solving and communication skills in all subject areas. Today, students can express their understanding in a variety of ways. Whether it be film or Webquest, Website or Blog, essay or digital portfolio students have never had so many avenues through which to acquire and express knowledge.

This being said, teaching in this manner requires bold vision and a willingness to change. It requires courage as well. Incorporating this approach requires that the teacher abandons his or her claim to be the font of knowledge, setting all objectives and learning outcomes. Now, the teacher must act as facilitator, coach and mentor, guiding their students through their own self-directed learning initiatives. Regardless of whether the message be related to the humanities, Mathematics or Science, this evolving technology medium will help students learn relevant information at their own pace and mastery level. Along the way, they will learn valuable life skills that will enable them to become vibrant thinkers and confident individuals.

Never has the job of a teacher been more important as they blend these new approaches with traditional learning design. As we move into a new academic year at Aberdeen Hall, we are blessed with gifted teachers who are willing and able to incorporate cutting edge pedagogy with common sense of good judgement.

Grant Ozechowsky

Director of Senior School