Read in Computimes (NST, Monday, 11 July 2005, pg. 22) - Students clicking through classes. Here's the deal -
IN THE SAME CLASS, students use handheld remote controls to answer questions in class. The device also known as clickers enable students to give instant feedback without woryying about giving the wrong answer. Honestly, I pray that none of the people in the Malaysian MOE are sucked into this.
Now people, let's try it without the clickers. In a class 0f 40 children, the teacher ask a question from a piece of paper that contains 10 questions. First question, teacher ask question, students put their hands up, teacher count those who said TRUE, and those who said FALSE. Can this be done, as we have been doing it ALL the while. We have to lose our hands and our voice and the human interaction and use the clickers?? Whoa ... what a load of ...
Teacher can SEE who said TRUE and who said FALSE. Teacher then interact with students who got it wrong and
EXPLAIN the correct answer and what was wrong with their answer.
THAT IS THE WHOLE POINT OF THE CLASSROOM. If clicking is the way to go, students can stay at home and use a CAI and click all they want. They don't have to go to school. The reason there is a school and a TEACHER is for teaching and learning can take place, meaningful learning.
I don't believe a single word when teachers (in the US) say that they have used clickers and
believe (this is such a convincing word!!) students learn more when using the remotes. Learn moree by clicking?? Goodness gracious me, come on Malaysians, surely we are NOT that stupid. They may know US students, BUT I know Malaysian students!! I know Malaysian characteristics, mentality, responses and attitude.
It will never be about the technology. The TEACHER must introduce the creativity, not technology. Technology can't do anything!! WE use technology and make it perform the task that we have planned, designed and created ... Technology is used to only enhance ... but what is there to enhance?? You got that right, you must introduce the activity first !!! Like I said before, you wanna a workshop, you know where to find me, and I won't charge exorbitant fees like foreign consultants .. aiyaa, tak tau lah ...
