Why is this different?
“After the Bell, Beyond the Walls” by Eric Langhorst is a spectacular template for successful integration of new technologies into the classroom. This innovative history teacher incorporated podcasting and blogging into lessons about the American Revolutionary and Civil Wars. These techniques were met with accolades from fellow educators and administrators alike, not to mention the toughest critics to please, students and parents.
So why is this different? Why has this particular approach, with an operating cost of essentially zero, succeeded, where technology initiatives worth millions have failed?
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) published a list of “Essential Conditions” which are required if teachers are expected to embrace and utilize new technologies in the classroom. Mr. Langhorst’s approach meets nearly all of them.
Most importantly, his approach is student-centered. “StudyCasts” (a coined term for his educational podcasts) are to supplement the lesson, not replace it. Langhorst also does not fall victim to the common assumption that all students have equal access to the same tools outside of the school building. He makes his StudyCasts available in a variety of formats; students who do not have an MP3 player can easily obtain the audio reviews on CD. Struggling readers can participate at their own pace.
Unfortunately, the ISTE conditions can create a sort of “chicken and egg” situation. Many administrators will not support a new initiative (through funding, professional development, policy, technical assistance, and otherwise) unless it hasn’t been assessed as successful. Many teachers will not expend time or energy to change curricula without administration’s consent. However, through the alignment of many key factors (Langhorst’s personal drive, innovation, technological expertise, as well as what can be seen as a fairly liberal administration) we have proof that it can work.
Langhorst best summarizes his approach:
“Will technology magically save the U.S. education system? Certainly not, but to effectively teach all students, we clearly must begin to use some of the technology that has so dramatically changed our lives outside the classroom. It’s not about the “wow” factor — it’s about effective instruction. Students bring multiple learning styles to school; not everyone is best served through lecture-based content delivery and assessments based on written text.”
And if that doesn’t convince you, let the students speak for themselves:
“This is so helpful five stars thanks mr. langhorst !!!”
“Mr. Langhorst is the coolest teacher EVER!!!!”
“Hi Mr. Langhorst its Keelie!!! Thank you soo much for this study guide!!! YOU RULE!!!!”
Eric Langhorst’s History StudyCasts (iTunes) | StudyCasts Blog | Eric Langhorst’s Homepage