An education expert says our K-12 system is based on antiquated beliefs of “factory values.” William Draves, President of Learning Resources Network, (LERN) says in the last century in Wisconsin the factory was the main driver of the economy. But with the industry in severe decline, it’s vital to reshift our concepts of learning.
Draves applauds efforts to adopt technology, including online communication in the classroom, but says the US has been slow to get on board.
He cites the Netherlands where students are told to turn on their smart phones at school, “because the cell phone is a delivery method, a resource to the rest of the world.”
In contrast most US schools that do not allow wireless devices in class although Draves believes that will change in the next decade.
Unfortunately rural schools are at a severe disadvantage regarding broadband access compared to their city counterparts, says the River Falls based education analyst.
Draves is a presenter at the Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance conference which continues today in the Wausau area.