That cultural reference shouldn’t need to be explained, but
just in case:
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| The moment many would argue that "Happy Days" became irrelevant |
We’ve written about jumping the shark at the Underground
before, and some would even say that we ourselves jumped that proverbial shark
long ago. So in a sense, perhaps we’ve outlived our relevance. But you know
what hasn’t?
The 3.5mm jack. This item has been around since before
Fonzie literally jumped the shark, taking the obnoxious noise of the “on the
shoulder boombox” out of the neighborhood and putting the music in our ears
through the Walkman and countless knock offs that would follow.
The jack never changed, but we began to use it in different
ways. Unlike coaxial cables, various other a/v cordage, that simple single plug
jack accommodated headphones and computer speakers, it connected personal
devices to larger systems for audio, and it even became a source for
individuals and small businesses to collect credit card payments without the
expensive equipment.
Now Apple wants to crush it. And they’ll do it because
they’ve found the language to convince us.
Using language such as “courage” and “ancient” we’re once
again being divided into the two camps of innovators and luddites. Did courage
drive this decision, or was it just good business sense? If it makes more money
for us, do it. And just because a technology has served us since the 1960’s, do
we write it off as obsolete as a result?
Even on the Today show, hosts weighed in on their opinions
with Matt Lauer in the middle emphasizing the dichotomy between the
“progressive” and “traditionalist” sitting on either side of him.
A friend and colleague recently shared an article on Twitter
and asked for thoughts. “Screens in Schools are a Billion Dollar Hoax.” And, just like discussion over the 3.5mm jack, we’re no longer talking about
reality, we’re framing the reality to suit our ideals. So what are we dealing
with in education? Is it an ancient system that we need to have the courage to
destroy, or are the innovators just hoodwinking all of us to advance their
agenda?
Let me be so bold as to tell the truth.
Children need to sit and listen. They need to follow
directions. They need structure and order. They need to learn how to do hard
things and realize that life is not always fun. They need to learn the
consequences of their actions. They need to know that some things are off
limits. They need to put away their phones and screens.
Children need to move and create. They need to figure out
things on their own. They need freedom and room for spontaneity. They need to
have fun and relax. They need a break. The need to have dreams and support in
pursuing them. They need to use technology to enhance what they’re doing and
even do things that aren’t possible without it.
Don’t try to sell me any philosophy that doesn’t address
both of these. They don’t contradict. It’s what good teachers do, and it is
what students appreciate. If not now, later.
