Tablets Can't Solve Standardized Test Questions

In The New York Times article "No Child Left Untableted" by Carlo Rotella, he discusses both the pros and cons for educational tablet use in classes. The argument that intrigued me the most was towards the end of the article when he says, "Still, if everyone agrees that good teachers make all the difference, wouldn’t it make more sense to devote our resources to strengthening the teaching profession with better recruitment, training, support and pay?"

There is no doubt that teachers are some of the most dedicated, influential members of our society. They directly shape the minds and social skills of future generations for at least 16 years of their lives, yet they are some of the most overworked, underpaid and unappreciated employees. How many times have we as college students made snide remarks or heard comments that "being an education major is easy?" How many teachers have we had growing up that we could see the passion and determination they put into their professions, especially on their personal time or using personal resources? While the American education system is quite flawed with its focus on standardized test scores and plug and chug memorization, teachers have the potential to revolutionize the education system given the appropriate compensation and resources, which does not need to include tablets or technology in general.

In the article, Rotella describes some counterarguments that tablets in education make an impact on students if teachers are able to use them in a way that balances both traditional and digital teaching methods. I understand the need for personalized learning instead of cookie-cutter lesson plans that every student is expected to understand at the same pace. I understand the challenge of engaging students in learning and that the excitement and resources provided by tablets can help make education more engaging for students who are already so engaged in technology outside of school. I understand that using tablets is also more economical and timely than using textbooks, software and educational kits that become outdated in a matter of years. However, at the end of the day I believe that it's the tried and true face-to-face human interactions that are the key to captivating students to actively participate and take initiative in their education.

Looking back on my own education, I don't remember the format of how I learned in school, such as primarily relying on textbooks, using computer games, doing hands-on activities, etc. What I do remember are the teachers who made a personal investment in my learning, my well-being and my future. They didn't need a tablet to help me understand a concept beyond straight memorization for a test. They didn't need a tablet to get me excited to go to class. They didn't need instantaneous quizzes and results to personalize my learning experience. It was their teaching styles, ability to relate to the entire class, and availability and approachability inside and outside of the classroom that engaged me in my education and voluntary participation to do well in school.

In a recent article from The Guardian, the author discusses the results of a research study that identify a few key traits of successful teachers, including empathy, resilience and adaptability. The training, recognition and development of teachers is what the education industry needs to invest in. Tablets and other technology can be great tools that teachers can integrate into their lesson plans, but they are not the end-all-be-all solution to an improved education system.