This is the third of five posts about five amazing speakers who have made an incredible impact on our school since our professional development event called Engage and inspire – the possibilities are endless in March this year.
You can read more about the conference in this general post: http://bit.ly/kRCP8W
I have met Steve several times in fact we are extremely lucky to have Steve work so close by to our school and we have benefited from the links we have developed with him both our students and staff. Steve really does have his finger on the pulse with what is out there at the moment and what is coming. He writes a fantastic blog which you should also check out: http://steve-wheeler.blogspot.com/
I would like to end this post with some comments about what Ben spoke about from some of the delegates as I feel this is more appropriate than me saying what I thought of it.
“He made me think (again) about the fact that each new generation sets its own boundaries, develops its own language and needs to learn in its own way. Also, that the previous generation will always raise objections to new technology. My favourite phrase was "Why are we giving children cut flowers when we should be teaching them to grow their own"
“How important it is to embrace new technology and how quickly technology is progressing, in addition not to be daunted by it and excepting of the fact that pupils will be more aware that we are.”
“Changing attitudes towards technology and the impact of ‘text talk’ on writing, which was interesting because I have researched this at uni previously. I already encourage my KS5 students to use their mobiles in lessons but less so in my KS3 and KS4 classes – not sure why — this will definitely change now!”
“To be proud of the advances of Saltash.net and ensure that I am part of the team to carry it forwards”
“Education is very much about what is learned not about what is taught. The use of smartphones not planners is the way forward. Use social media to communicate with your students (in a safe and protected environment). Teach skills not knowledge”
Have you heard Steve talk? What did you think? You can follow Steve on twitter @timbuckteeth