The second addition of Willingham’s book came out in 2021, which means he was likely working on the updated version in 2019/2020. How much has technology changed between the time he wrote this text and 2026? Of course part of the answer is that AI exploded and continues to be the driving factor in both children and adolescent’s overall experience with technology and educational technology specifically.
Technology had definitely changed from when this book had been written. Over the past three years the takeover of Ai has been such a prominent issue in classrooms all over the United States. Along with cell phones which have almost all been removed from classroom settings. The game simulation that my team has been planning for the last couple weeks will provide some context to children about certain environmental AI issues. They will also play the game with little to no technology so they can be entirely focused on the game.
In my opinion, technology should be used to support student learning when the situation calls for it. Those situations may be when students are learning to navigate online resources that are good sources. Students need to know what they can trust online to build those skills. It’s necessary that students use technology when some resources can’t be provided for the students in hands-on experiences. Using 3D models and diagrams online are very helpful for lessons that can’t be shown in the classroom. I think it is very important for students to have hands-on experiences in their school experience but sometimes we don’t always have the time or resources to do those things. It’s not only important that we give students opportunities on the internet but also teach them how to successfully and safely use it.
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