For the first time, in March of this year, the New Media Consortium (NMC) released their annual report in conjunction with EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative on emerging technologies for K-12. The Horizon Report focuses on a time frame of 1-5 years and outlines trends and challenges associated with implementing these technologies. The report primarily draws from published resources, current research and practices, and expertise from field experts on the project. Funding through a grant from Microsoft Corporation, the Horizon Report is a powerful tool in the future planning for K-12 success.
The report focused on six emerging technologies that have the power to transform education in the next 5 years including collaborative environments, online communication tools, mobile devices, cloud computing, smart objects, and the personal web. Over the next few weeks, we will examine each of these technologies. Discussing what they are and how they can change the face of K-12 learning.
Collaborative environments is not a new concept at its core. Originally created out of a realization that there is a tremendous amount we can learn from others. Learning from a textbook is simply reading about other's experiences. With information at our fingertips, there is no need to stick to one resource for learning. Networking has paid its dues to be recognized as one of the best ways to learn new things, meet new people, and advance your agenda (which is not as sleazy as it sounds). Collaborative environments work in the same way. Open up a virtual table full of students with thoughts, experiences, and desire, and you have one good old fashion brainstorming session. Freedom to learn and grow at one's own pace opens roads that lead to new countries, concepts, and contradictions. This environment pushes students to learn differently, promoting teamwork, critical thinking, and skills that instill lifelong learning.
The Horizon report suggests implementing this technology in a year or less. Many school systems have already begun the collaborative environment platform. Try starting a blog log or launch a youtube contest to begin the dialogue. Create assignments that discuss or analyze the content. Watch the students teach each other, see new ideas evolve, and take note of the empowerment behind this kind of learning.
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