My reflections on the seeds of a new system of education

It was very enlightening reading about all of the "seeds" of a new education system that are currently gaining more and more attention in today's society. I have previously heard of concepts such as home schooling, workplac learning, distance education, adult education, learning centers, educational television and videos, computer based learning software, technical certfications, and internet cafes but I am now realizing the impact they can have on how we educate life long learners.

I was interested while reading about home schooling and how it is more adaptive to technological advances. Since learning occurs in the home, and technology is integrated more easily into the home, students have more experience with using computers when learning. It was also made clear to me that home school students are as high or higher achieving than students on standardized tests, and do not experience the background issues typically found in public schools. I have always been concerned with the level of social interaction that occurs among home schooled students, but with increasing access to internet, groups of home schooled students can collaborate and engage socially.

Another concept that interested me was computer-based learning software. I have always noticed how young children become very excited and motivated when given the opportunity to work with games and simulation. When children are already motivated to engage in an activity, it is the teacher's job to embedd instruction and to find away to allow learning to occur. Games promote learning by doing, and even social interaction when games are teamed with the internet. As a future teacher I will recognize how games and simulations can be used in a positive way to promote learning.

I was confused at the end of the chapter when the authors say that it is likely that elementary and early childhood facilities and practices are likely to stay the same despite these seeds of change. I argue that changes will be seen. Technology can be used to facilitate the development of young children if used appropriately. I can see games, simulations, and videos being used in this arena.