Dec

2

The tool is irrelevant…

December 2, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Since my post on the new Livescribe e-paper system a couple of weeks ago, I have had many teachers and readers offer comment on the  new developments.  Some have expressed interest, wanting to order it for their learners.  Others, like Dan, saw the marketing video as being quite teacher-centered.

Doesn’t the scenario presented in the Livescribe demonstration video reinscribes a top-down mode of instructional delivery which is generally less effective than more collaborative, student centered models?

True, the video as shown did portray an old-school, chalk and talk, fact-based curricula scenario.  However, the same scenario could have been created for any tool.  Fact is, it’s not about the technology, but about how it is applied to learning.  In fact, a quick look at the other promo vids on the livescribe site show two other presentations promoting more dynamic, learner content creation ideas.

I would be interested in hearing ideas for using Livescribe tools in the context of a student centered pedagogy. At this point, I fail to see why Livescribe tools would be superior to tools, such as the Tablet PC, already in use.

Many tools are interchangeable.  E-paper be used in many of the same ways as a tablet for sure, but to me that isn’t the point.  It’s not about what any tool can do, but how creative learners can use it.   Laptops, tablets, can all be used in very traditional and in progressive ways.  The key is innovation and a willingness by leading learners (teachers) to shift from a focus on teaching to a focus on learning.

That being said, I like the idea of e-paper.  First of all, it’s cheaper than a tablet.  At under $200 for the pen, e-paper is promoted at a similar cost to traditional paper.   Secondly, it looks less bulky and more portable.  And the ability to easily embed and link audio is not something I have seen in a PC environment.

I have little to go on other than the web promo, but any tool that can be used to collaborate and share in a digital environment can be positive if placed in the right hands.

tags: technology, education, learning, whipple, livescribe

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