Journal # 9

“Point/Counterpoint: Is Technology Killing Critical Thinking?” By Helen Crompton and Alfred Thompson (NETS 1-4)

Crompton, Helen and Thompson, Alfred. (2010). Point/counterpoint is technology killing critical thinking?. Learning and Leading, 38(1), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Point_Counterpoint_Is_Technology_Killing_Critical_Thinking.aspx


Summary: The article defines critical thinking as the ability to carefully evaluate and think about the information presented to us. Alfred Thompson answered yes to the question postulated. One of his main arguments was that technology is a tool not a solution, as it is often used. Just replacing the whiteboard with a projector screen will not promote more critical thinking. He also says that tools like email and instant messaging that could be used to teach collaboration in the classroom are more often than not blocked by school firewalls. He ends his part of the article by saying that technology in schools is really only being implemented in the classroom to make work easier and faster, not to foster critical thinking skills. Helen Crompton argues that technology is not killing critical thinking, but can actually foster it. She says that technology, and specifically the internet, can allow for students to look beyond the four walls of the classroom. Also she argues that technology allows students to become the producers and editors of information and not simply the consumers. She does admit however that it is the job of the educator to help students to learn to use technology to develop critical thinking skills.

Question 1: Whose side am I on?
A: I believe that technology can be used to teach students critical thinking skills. I think that it has to be done responsibly and actively though because it won’t teach itself. Educators must show students the proper ways to use technology in addition to other skills. Technology gives students a vast array of resources to research. By teaching them how to evaluate all that they see on the internet an educator is teaching his/her students critical thinking skills.

Question 2: Explain a project that you would do in the classroom using technology to foster critical thinking.
A: Here I would have my students use Google Blogger every time we start a new chapter or subject. I would have them go and collect images and sayings from the topic we are studying and have them make an online gallery. Then I would require that they engage in the discussion about what they think about each item posted. Then I would have them do research and post a before and after reflection.