The Achievement Trap ....and Technology?

Hi All,

I just came across an article that questions the premise of our test driven
education system.
The Article

Apparently, "getting an education" used to mean creating thoughtful citizens. Go figure. Now we are trapped in a achievement driven culture that is focused on producing kids that may become high income earners. (The jury is out as to whether this system actually does that.)

Why is this relevant to my Blog?

Well, ed tech swings with the educational pendulum. If we are in an achievement trap (generally) then most ed tech products will reflect this. If you don't, you won't sell units. Right?

Why can't ed tech products and practitioners lead the way out of this unfortunate situation? Why should we allow kids to be placed in this "one size fits all" system?

What do you think?

Jim :-)

Offensive on-line content article

In ...The Online Edge: Persistent Problems of Porn - Offensive online content assaults school users through multiple channels, Odvard Egil Dyrli does a great job of describing the issue of "porn-napping" and disguised inappropriate e-mail links.

The Article

This information may be an eye-opener for some. It is worth reading (as is most of the content on Districtadministration.com).


Although I am typically suspicious of schemes that "over-filter" content, I must admit that Gil is correct to highlight this growing problem and the negative effect it has on web use at schools (and home).


What do you think of this issue? Have you had a negative experience with this issue at your school?

Jim :-)