Tools for the times

There is a significant gap between what electronic technology actually does and what we are told about it in the papers. Even as computers and other devices become humble tools for people who use them regularly, they remain romantic or forbidding contraptions for many others.

Dennis Galway and Wayne Thompson are two teachers from very different parts of the country who teach in very different schools but who share many ideas about using technology in the classroom. First, neither of them were intimidated by the challenge of adapting technology for learning — they just went out and learned about new technology and then applied it. They both managed to use technology at surprisingly low costs. And, perhaps most importantly, both decided to make technology fit the curriculum rather than the other way around.

Below, Mr. Galway and Mr. Thompson talk about how others can repeat their success. They offer not only helpful information but also a useful attitude for overcoming initial fears and doubts about using new technology at school to motivate students and give them new and exciting opportunities.

• Using what you have

  Dennis Galway
  Amalgamated Academy
  Bay Roberts, Newfoundland

• The desk on the other side of the world

  Wayne Thompson
  Almonte and District High School
  Almonte, Ontario