On "Reinventing the Wheel"

I decided to name my blog "Reinventing the Wheel" because it is a phrase I have heard often upon entering the teaching community. Usually, the conversation goes something like:

Frustrated and tired Teacher Candidate:  "Ugh, I don't know about this lesson! Will this engage the students enough? Do I incorporate different methods of learning and instruction? How will I assess their learning in a  measurable  and meaningful way?"

Savvy Veteran Teacher: "Dont worry about it, kid! You will do great! Its not like you are reinventing the wheel."

What does this phrase mean exactly? Dictionary.com suggests that this figure of speech means "to make unnecessary or redundant preparations".  The general feeling of the phrase is that there is nothing new or original to be done, and it is usually said in a derisive manner. It falls under the category of phrases like "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Basically at it's core is the belief that there is nothing to be improved upon. Any "new" or "fascinating insight" you bring has already been done before. So why try?

When should the wheel be reinvented? That is really a tough question. The following are some examples of times when it might be the right move:

* When something obviously needs improvement. Maybe it was great at one time, but it doesn't currently meet the need or help accomplish the mission in the most efficient and effective manner. 

* When someone has an idea that might improve it (whatever "it" is), even if it is working. If the improvement helps make it better, cheaper, easier to use or maintain, or improves the efficiency, why not use the idea?

* When someone has a new and innovative idea. If the idea will lead to a better product or process of some kind that is needed or useful, reinvention may be worthwhile.
* When the dollar and time constraints aren't there. This doesn't happen often, but it is in the realm of possibility.  

(adapted from "Two sides of reinventing the wheel."Defense Acquisition University Press. thefreelibrary.com)

With respect to technology in education, I think it is about time to "reinvent the wheel." The education system clearly could use some revamping/reimagining. Maybe the old system once worked, but in this day and age its not properly preparing our students for the rapidly changing future. Even though there are successes in the education system, why not implement technology to help potentially make the system better, easier to use, and more efficient? This acceptance and experimental phase may lead to even greater advancements and outcomes that we might not even be able to conceive at this moment in time. Although technology devices cost quite a bit up front, the cost of brick and mortar tools/devices are just as costly. In other arenas the price of using technology is very little and might help to lower the overall cost of education.

Therefore, the goal of this blog is to explore the ins and outs, the ups and downs, the pros and cons of technology in education, in order to see if we can really reinvent the wheel.