Can vs. May in Classroom Technology

Many teachers, myself included, have responded to a student's request "Can I go to the bathroom?" with "I'm not sure; can you?". I've learned the use of the word "can" in this context is acceptable, according to the Oxford Dictionary, while "may" represents a more formal request. But we'll leave that argument out of this post and address the often heard phrases in technology "I can't", "they can't". The topic came to mind after hearing and reading several blogs/podcasts regarding similar statements of perceived ability affecting effort and therefore outcome.

Often we respond to an inquiry about our experience with technology in the form of ability; "I can't", "don't ask me", "that's too hard". When a better choice might be "I haven't tried it", "Could you show me", "I'd be interested in learning". Perhaps we should all think of ourselves as students in our own classrooms. How do you respond to a student that seems to be giving up and claims they just can't do it? Sorry, if I've just made some of you a bit uncomfortable; but isn't that just what we need and want to do with our students. Let's take them and ourselves just a little outside of the comfort zone and expand our knowledge and abilities. We in technology want to introduce something new and provide teachers and students the possibility to discover abilities they did not know they had.

This year the Instructional Technology team looks forward to sharing new ideas, tools, and resources in technology integration. We know that it takes time to learn and be comfortable with integrating these new laptops/iPads. We also know there are many other demands on your time. Our goal is to guide you through the process and support you along the way.

So, CAN you integrate technology and use new tools? Now that you have increased access to technology in your classroom...of course you can! You MAY now implement all those great ideas you read on the internet somewhere (now go find the bookmark you created).

Remember even old dogs can learn new tricks!

http://www.discovery.com/tv-shows/mythbusters/mythbusters-database/teach-old-dog-new-tricks/