Virtual Learning
By Peter W. Cookson, Jr.

In the last decade, the use of computer-based technology has transformed the educational landscape. For some, this journey into the virtual world is an exciting voyage, full of possibility and innovation. For others, technology is an escape from the hard work of building relationships and independent thinking. No doubt you have your own unique approach to the brave new world of virtual learning.

From my perspective, technology can be enormously useful if it's used as an instructional tool and not elevated to the status of an educational religion. While technology is no substitute for face-to-face education, it does provide us with information right at our fingertips. Below are four principles of learning that I hope will allow us to use technology in the service of discovery:

We learn by doing. We know from theory and practice that we are active learners. The blending of face-to-face with online learning can be extraordinarily rewarding. When you incorporate technology into your classroom, think of ways that students can communicate creatively both face-to-face and virtually.

Learning requires social interaction. Social intelligence allows us to develop our other intelligences; the greatest teachers guide their students to use social awareness as a tool for opening up the world of learning. Avoid isolating kids on their computers. The computer should be seen as a form of dialogue and not as an escape from the demands of interaction.

Learning requires structure. Part of our job is to help students have ideas about facts. The exciting part of learning is the discovery of unexpected patterns and relationships. Your students should know why they're working virtually and not just float through cyberspace.

Learning is personal. If you think back on your most exciting learning experiences, I'm sure that they're associated with an individual who supported your journey toward knowledge. One of the dangers of computer-assisted learning is that it presents a world without conflict or differences of opinion. Technology should engender debate rather than close it off through false certitude of facts without ideas.

Think of technology as an extension of the mind and allow the imaginations of your students to soar. Technology is a friend of learning as long as it's used to create knowledge rather than shortchange thinking.

Peter W. Cookson, Jr. is the founder of TCinnovations and the Dean of the Graduate School of Education of Lewis & Clark College. He is also founder of the Center for Educational Outreach & Innovation at Teachers College.

January, 2004, Vol.34, No.4