top of page
Search

Remote Control

  • Writer: J.Addison
    J.Addison
  • Jul 25, 2020
  • 3 min read

Long ago the British Prime Minister Disraeli said, “with words we govern.” And words, as of late, have really let us down. Worse, our words mislead, hurt and impede real progress.

It is time to get our words right. For example, I really dislike the expression “social distancing.” Six feet of separation is physical distancing. In times like these we need collective fusion, innovative encounters and new and creative ways to be social. To be socially distant makes life untenable. Together we are strong. Physical distance, for the time being, but please do not social distance.

Now something more personal. Remote learning has burst open a national debate. The Hatfields and the McCoys have been awaken to this political spat. But the problem may be in the words we have chosen to frame the debate. Remote learning?

First, let me digress for a minute. Eugene J. Polley, a Chicago native, worked his way up from the stock room to be an award-winning electrical engineer for Zenith Electronics. You may have never heard of him, but you certainly know how his invention has changed the quality of your life. Eugene J. Polley, in 1955, patented his Flash-Matic. The Flash-Matic was the first wireless TV remote control. Controlling your television remotely was a not just a channel changer, it was a game changer. Can you imagine life before a remote control? But remote learning is bad for us?

What are common synonyms for the word “remote”? A simple Google search would tell you such words as far-flung, inaccessible, private, out-of-the-way, and in the distance. Not exactly words that fit well with learning. No wonder then, when we hear the two words put together – remote learning – the connotation sounds negative.

That is why I prefer twenty-first century learning. Digital platforms are not a passing fad. Socrates, remember, argued over two thousand years ago that books would destroy learning. Vast University libraries would seem to prove him wrong. Likewise, digital learning or remote learning is not a short-term fix, but a reality for twenty-first century education.

I have been lucky to work for a school district that empowered me over a decade ago to launch an online course. Remote learning for me was not an emergency plan during a pandemic. Remote learning was the new normal. And in many ways, it was better. Twenty-first century learning should not look like Fifteenth century learning. And what do bricks and mortar schools in your neighborhood look more like?

In my twenty-first century classroom students were encouraged to work collaboratively; use technology appropriately; and to innovate any time, any place and at any pace. Students felt empowered to control their own learning. Learning no longer needed to be associated with acts of conformity; staying in line; and wasting time during inefficient school periods. Do you remember geometry class, or do you remember the stories told by your geometry teacher? Twenty-first century schools emphasize learning, not teaching.

My online students, my twenty-first century laboratory, appreciated the trust, the autonomy and the chance to control their learning…remotely.

“With words we govern.” Many of our contemporary debates are less about substance, and more about terminology. Maybe twenty-first century learning isn’t the best word. I know I don’t like remote learning, but how about remote control? That sounds like a channel change we can all get excited about.


 
 
 

Recent Posts

See All

12 commenti


ficahafizo
27 mag

Working with a realtor las vegas made my home buying experience smooth and stress-free. Their local expertise and market knowledge really helped me make the right decision. If you're planning to move to Las Vegas, partnering with a seasoned professional can save you time and money.

Mi piace

ficahafizo
22 mag

Visiting a beauty hair salons in naples is not just about hair; it’s about self-care. This salon’s relaxing ambiance and professional service make it easy to unwind while getting your hair done. Their stylists are talented and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Mi piace

Guest
29 apr

Working with specialists who understand Shopify’s unique structure gives you a real advantage. Hiring professional shopify seo services means you’ll likely see faster improvements in ranking, more qualified traffic, and ultimately more conversions.

Mi piace

Guest
29 apr

After getting your guard card, you must complete a firearm permit course and pass a psychological evaluation. Many people don’t realize how straightforward it is once you learn how to get armed security guard license in California and follow each step carefully. It might sound intense, but it’s actually very achievable with the right training program.

Mi piace

Guest
29 apr

If you're looking to explore modest fashion, understanding the beauty of the thobe and dishdasha can open up a new level of appreciation. These garments are both rooted in Islamic tradition and offer variations in fit and fabric depending on region.

Mi piace

"Nothing gives one person so much advantage over another as to remain always cool under all circumstances." T. Jefferson

  • w-facebook
  • Twitter Clean
  • w-googleplus
bottom of page