Development is a unique discipline in that it does not have a right answer. It is solely based in theory and evaluations of other people’s attempts at making a difference. As a student it can be frustrating because I find myself settling to a certain perspective, belief or ideas for development only to read about a different theory that seems better. After reading so many evaluations of “failed” programs and criticisms of theories I find myself feeling quite dejected. Can development really happen anymore? I spend a lot of time thinking about the appropriate and least aggressive way of introducing technology into education to aid development of a schooling system. I have started to truly believe that it is impossible or pompous of me to think that I can drop technology into a “less developed” community school where resources are limited and electricity is scarce and expect it to stick. Then I discovered this TED talk. Sugata Mitra’s study has been very eye opening and renewed my faith in technology. One thing I have learned during the past few months is that there needs to be an end to “we” and “them” thinking. “We” are not saviors or deliverers of knowledge. “They” have knowledge that has helped them survive their context for hundreds of years. Anyone who is an educator or parent or has spent a significant amount of time with children know that they surprise us everyday. They are more capable and more intelligent than many of us give them credit for. Mitra’s study reminds us to shake our preconceptions about ability. This has renewed my faith in educational technology as a tool for development in rural communities. Watch it and let me know what you think!
Sugata Mitra's TED Talk <<< CLICK HERE!!
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