Pedagogy, Technology and the Search for Inspiration

Posted on January 9, 2013 by Doug

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I’m often sceptical when I hear people say that we should always put pedagogy before technology. I’m sceptical because I believe that if we do that then we shall only teach what we have always taught and that we shall only teach in ways in which we have always taught. Gone would be all notion of innovation and new ways of teaching; gone would be personalisation, differentiation and providing engaging experiences to fit learner needs. Perhaps the only difference might be that occasionally a teacher might open a resource cupboard and wheel out a computer to show students something on the screen.

I have often argued that pedagogy and technology should be seen together, planned together and used together, that technology is an asset and a means, not just an add-on. It is with these two things in mind that I usually travel to conferences and exhibitions, such as the BETT show in London. I go to seek new ideas and inspiration. Sometimes, I find these in exhibits, sometimes I find them in the talks and lectures, and sometimes I find them just by talking to colleagues I meet. Occasionally, I do not find inspiration or ideas at the show or conference but I still go with hope of doing so.

At the time of writing this, I am not sure if I shall be able to attend this year’s BETT show, which is a pity because this year, 2013, would seem to mark a new stage in the show’s history as it moves for the first time to the Excel centre in London. I can recall attending early BETT shows at the Barbican and have frequently attended since then. If I do go, then I shall again be looking for inspiration but even if I don’t attend then I hope other people there will find inspiration and share what they find.

I have often argued